Boost Camp in Lubumbashi and Kolwezi: Accelerating local entrepreneurship
The Hushindi Program 2024-2025, particularly the Boost Camp held from October 22 to November 5, 2024, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), represents a pivotal step in supporting local entrepreneurs in the Haut Katanga and Lualaba provinces. This initiative, led by OVO and the Centres de Ressources (CdR) in these two regions at the request of Enabel, aims to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to help them thrive in a demanding socio-economic environment.
A Structured Support for the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The CdRs play a central role in this program, leveraging their in-depth knowledge of local needs and dynamics. Their involvement ensures targeted and effective actions to support entrepreneurs in the two provinces, who often face challenges related to access to resources, infrastructure, and management skills.
The Hushindi Boost Camp employed an innovative approach with intensive training based on the Societal Business Canvas, a business model integrating societal and environmental dimensions developed by ICHEC, Brussels Management School. This framework enables businesses to align their strategies with sustainable development priorities while improving their competitiveness.
A Rigorous and Inclusive Methodology
- Enterprise Selection:
Out of more than 100 applications, 20 promising enterprises were selected across diverse sectors, including agri-food, services, crafts, art, recycling, and catering. Each company was carefully chosen based on its growth potential and specific needs. The selection process involved multiple stages, including a thorough evaluation by a committee of experts comprising representatives from Enabel, the CdRs, and local partners. Each selected business was visited before the camp to better understand its specific needs. - Personalized Coaching:
Ten international business coaches (from France, Belgium, and Benin) and ten local coaches worked with the entrepreneurs to provide tailored support. On-site visits and residential sessions were key to building trust and maximizing the program's impact. Coaches collaborated closely with entrepreneurs to develop customized solutions and explore innovative strategies, utilizing tools such as practical guides and canvas templates adapted to local realities. - Training and Practical Workshops:
Participants completed a series of 12 interactive training modules addressing key topics like financial management, marketing strategy, and integrating environmental and societal concerns into their business models. These modules, designed in collaboration with ICHEC and UNIKOL (University of Kolwezi), were enriched with relevant local examples. Group projects allowed entrepreneurs to directly apply concepts to their businesses, fostering a hands-on and immersive approach. - Pitch Competition:
A pitch competition enabled entrepreneurs to present their visions and projects before a jury of local experts. This highlight of the program celebrated participants’ efforts and showcased inspiring projects with strong societal impacts. Each entrepreneur had five minutes to convince the jury, followed by a dynamic Q&A session.
Sustainable Impacts for the Local Economy
- Enriching Training: Entrepreneurs were equipped with practical tools to improve their business models and societal impact.
- Enhanced Networking: Participants benefited from exchanges with peers and experts, fostering collaboration and mutual support.
- Post-Boost Camp Follow-Up: A six-month follow-up is planned to ensure the implementation of learnings and sustainable impacts.
Additionally, local coaches will continue to play an active role, providing tailored support to businesses in their growth efforts.
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