Program Objective: The program aims to empower individuals in the informal sector with entrepreneurial skills, knowledge and resources to enhance their economic independence, improve business sustainability, and foster community development. Successful implementation of the program requires vendors to meet the Program Implementation requirements outline below. While the Training and Capacity Building component of the program will depend heavily on the Kauffman FastTrac® program (outlined under program curriculum, the vendor will need to provide additional capacity and resources to successfully implement the mentorship and networking; access to resources; and market linkages component of the program. Program Implementation Requirements: (1) Training and Capacity Building • To provide practical workshops and training sessions on fundamental business skills\, including financial literacy, marketing, record keeping, and customer relationship management. • Include specialized sessions tailored to the informal sector, such as navigating regulations, and leveraging local market opportunities (2) Mentorship and Networking: • Pair participants with experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders/professionals for personalized guidance • Facilitate networking events to connect participants with potential business partners, suppliers and customers (3) Access to Resources: • Provide access to micro-loans, grants, or equipment to support business start-ups or expansion • Offer informational resources on legal requirements and community support systems (4) Market Linkages and Exposure: • Organize market fairs or online platforms to showcase participant businesses • Facilitate partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders to promote products and services (5) Monitoring and Evaluation: • Track participant progress through regular feedback and performance assessments • Use results to improve program design and maximize impact Offer informational resources on legal requirements and community support systems
