It is estimated that 44% of Burkina Faso’s population lives below the poverty line, and over 15% of youth are unemployed. These conditions have been exacerbated by political upheaval in the country. Though many have resorted to self-employment in the informal economy, they face barriers—from lack of access to financing to limited business knowledge—in transitioning to successful enterprises.
Market Solution
Cultivons l’Esprit d’entreprise (CLE) worked with three local partners to promote and support entrepreneurial opportunities in Burkina Faso through a multi-pronged approach.
Beginning with a significant media push to educate more than 1 million male and female youth on the importance of entrepreneurialism, CLE created a funnel for engagement. The next phase of the project chose more than 2,000 young men and women to receive basic entrepreneurial skills training, from which the most promising ideas were given the opportunity to develop into possible businesses. In the final phase, the project provided incubation support to 25 men and women to build out their enterprises.
Market Impact
Resources
- CLE Fact Sheet (English, 8.5 x 11-inch)
- CLE Fact Sheet (English, A4)
- CLE Fact Sheet (French, A4)
- Entrepreneur profile videos
- Visit the CLE website for more information about the project.