A Business Networking Group For Mums
Got a burning business idea? Speak to the team at the CRIB who aim to help get mums’ new businesses off the ground
CRIB or Creating Responsible and Innovative Businesses, is a new Singapore-based social enterprise that empowers women to become successful entrepreneurs. It is the collective brainchild of four successful businesswomen and mothers, Tjin Lee, Elaine Kim, Mei Chee and Madelyn Lum. Tijin Lee, founder of Mercury Marketing & Communications, spoke to us about the project.
What is CRIB?
CRIB aims to be a matchmaker and incubator for women, to create a community and kickstart a movement that will help women become entrepreneurs in Singapore. Rather than just spend time together as an informal networking group, we actively introduce creative people to investors or business managers. There are so many challenges and pitfalls that can face a fledging business, and some can be avoided with the guidance of an experienced mentor.
How did CRIB come about?
It was conceptualised over my birthday dinner a year ago, when Elaine and I were, by chance, discussing how privileged we were to be both mothers and entrepreneurs. We were inspired by the women who we knew had so many resources to offer, either as investors or idea generators. We felt that a platform was needed to bring together different talents.
What’s the biggest challenge Singaporean women face getting a business off the ground?
Fear or self-doubt. Women often question themselves, or their ideas.
And we heard you are taking on an even larger project in 2015…
Yes, to celebrate Singapore’s 50th anniversary we are planning to showcase the achievements of 50 Singaporean businesswomen. We will be working with these women to contribute an item to be auctioned off on a crowd-funding platform to raise funds for such CRIB inititatives. Visit www.crib.com.sg