projects

Mentorship and capacity-building for refugee-led social enterprises

Completed
Several people stand outside a building next to a sign that says "community microloans and social business training"
Programme
UNHCR Innovation Incubator
Fund
Refugee-led Innovation Fund | Incubator
Start Date
Total Project Cost
USD 45,000
Country
Uganda
Partner organization
Bridging Gaps , Afri-Youth Network

Challenge

In Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, a lack of access to the banking system, financial markets, entrepreneurship education, and opportunities hinders refugees from starting social enterprises and becoming self-sufficient, perpetuating cycles of poverty and income inequality.

Solution

Bridging Gaps and Afri-Youth Network will provide entrepreneurship training, microloans, long-term coaching, and mentorship to local entrepreneurs, with a strong focus on female participation.

Impact

Up to 60 refugee entrepreneurs will benefit directly. By fostering their self-sufficiency, the project will create a ripple effect of new income sources – reducing inequality, breaking the cycle of poverty, and increasing community sustainability.

Project impact

60
entrepreneurs received interest-free micro-loans to establish small businesses
24123
USD (in UGX) paid out in disbursements during project, with 95% repayment rate
100%
of participants increased knowledge of financial planning, social entrepreneurship, & more

Other information

490 community members have indirectlt benefited from the initiative so far. Read more about this project in our webstory.