The “Building Women Back in FCT Rural Communities” project is an initiative funded by Women Leaders for the World (WLW). Its main objectives are:
– Accelerate entrepreneurial activities for local vulnerable women whose businesses were impacted by COVID-19
– Provide mentorship to help women-owned businesses overcome startup challenges
– Sustain and scale women-owned businesses through a local community business hub, access to funding, and market visibility
Project Activities
Planning and Design
– Advocacy visits to community leaders in Gosa, Iddo, Bassa-Jiwa, and Damagaza to lease community centers for training
– Selection of 150 women entrepreneurs from the 4 communities whose businesses were affected by COVID-19
– Curriculum development with trainers and strategies to address language barriers
Skill Acquisition
– Assessment of households into 3 categories: Provision (abject poverty), Protection (basic needs met), and Promotion (investment opportunities)
– Financial literacy training covering money management, budgeting, savings, and Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs)
– 4-month skills training (e.g., hairdressing, tailoring, soap-making) at community centres, 4 days a week
– Certificates and awards for beneficiaries upon training completion
Business Support
– Startup kits provided to 30 beneficiaries
– Mentorship program in partnership with Business and Professional Women (BPW) Premier Club Abuja
– Formation of a cooperative and VSLA for access to loans and business expansion
The “Building Women Back in FCT Rural Communities” project empowered 150 women entrepreneurs through skills training, financial literacy, startup resources, and ongoing mentorship. This comprehensive approach aims to create sustainable livelihoods and promote economic independence for vulnerable women in rural FCT communities.
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