Small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) have been identified as a vehicle that will deliver nutritional outcomes whilst fostering regional economic integration. A total of sixty-two (62) – 31 from Tanzania and 31 from Zambia - were trained in business management and export trade facilitation. The SMEs were selected from a pool of SMEs in aquatic food systems in the two countries using 10 variables ranging from production volumes, products offered and compliance with regulatory agencies. The training covered three thematic areas i.e. business management, food safety and standards and trade facilitation. The training approach comprised interactive on-site face-2-face training, practical sessions of auditing processing facilities, motivational talks from other SMEs that had already entered high premium markets, dialogues during business platforms and, handholding of SMEs to help them complete certain critical processes to access formal markets and complete regulatory requirements. The approach helped SMEs overcome what seemed complex processes; establish networks and trust with business development service providers in public and private sectors and created awareness of existing resources for SMEs including funding opportunities. Dialogue during business platforms gave SMEs and opportunity to engage with financial houses, regulators and other service providers and map existing opportunities offered by these stakeholders. Business clinics helped SMEs to identify areas for improvement and growth and, created additional opportunities for customized learning depending on the needs of targeted SMEs. Handholding the SMEs helped them to gain confidence, boost their morale and forge partnerships. Several SMEs won awards at marketing events and had their processing facilities certified by regulatory authorities. The process of handholding however, proved time demanding and requires personalized support
Key words: Handholding, Business Development Services, SMEs