What is a ‘One Stop Shop’?

A ‘One Stop Shop’ (OSS) is a help-desk at a local Chamber of Commerce and Industry providing information to assist in investment decision-making, support in start-up and post start-up processes. At the OSS existing and would-be entrepreneurs can find all the information they need about government and business services in one place, i.e. under one roof.

In contrast to some other definitions, this concept does not refer to the idea of “single window” system. It is not intended to provide direct access to all licenses and registrations required for a new business at one desk, though the OSS handouts form sheets, contacts, advices and addresses for the registration at the concerned offices in charge.

One Stop Shops have three levels of target beneficiaries. They include:

• Potential entrepreneurs: There are many people who dream of starting an enterprise on their own, but most of the times, they lack proper information and guidance regarding market situation and feasibility. They may have required financial resources too, but not enough information to make a decision. The OSS assists such potential entrepreneurs to make up their mind regarding investment decisions and sector selection by providing relevant information and advice.
• New business start-ups: They require facilitation and advice on business, company name and tax registration processes; identifying potential input suppliers at the upstream channel and distributors at the downstream channel; accessing financial resources and insurance services etc.
• Existing enterprises: For the growth of their business, they require information regarding new markets and consumer trends; identification of potential buyers; skill enhancement for themselves and their employees as well as facilitation in business renewal, tax payment processess and more.