Smile Foundation, in collaboration with Target International, is launching an entrepreneurship development project for empowering women and adolescent girls. Using a funnel approach to maximize its impact, the project will begin with training 500 beneficiaries in digital and financial literacy.
Initially, all 500 participants will receive foundational training. From this group, 100 women with either existing businesses or a strong desire to start one will be selected for more specialised support. They will participate in workshops focusing on digital marketing, communication skills, and e-commerce, equipping them with the tools to either expand their current businesses or launch new ventures.
Out of these 100 women, those with small-scale enterprises will get technical training to scale up their operations. They will be connected to financial institutions and government schemes for additional support and capital. For first-generation entrepreneurs, the programme provides technical training and links to financial resources to help them start their businesses.
Additionally, 10 group enterprises, each consisting of 30-40 women, will receive capital support to kick-start or grow their businesses. The remaining 60-70 women will be guided towards opportunities through financial institutions, government schemes, and employment platforms to further their income prospects.
The training will be delivered through interactive workshops designed to address the unique backgrounds, skill levels, and aspirations of the participants. Key activities include community identification, project staff recruitment, community mobilisation, and comprehensive training for 500 women and adolescents.
By leveraging this funnel approach, the project ensures targeted support and sustainable impact, helping participants achieve economic independence and contribute to their community’s growth.