Key Responsibilities:
Training Coordination and Delivery
- Coordinate and deliver group training sessions and one-on-one advisory sessions for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 MSMEs, focusing on areas such as business management, marketing, financial literacy, and production efficiency.
- Tailor training modules to address the specific needs of MSMEs, ensuring that training is relevant to their business goals and sector requirements.
- Provide continuous support to MSMEs throughout the training process, offering practical tools and advice to help them improve business operations.
Business Plan Development and Support
- Support MSMEs in developing clear, efficient, and actionable business plans that align with their growth objectives and address any operational challenges they face.
- Ensure that business plans are inclusive, with specific attention to the integration of youth and women entrepreneurs.
- Provide ongoing support in the implementation of business plans, including monitoring progress, offering guidance on adjustments, and troubleshooting challenges.
Monitoring and Evaluation
- Track the progress of MSMEs on a monthly basis, evaluating the evolution of their businesses in terms of productivity, profitability, and market access.
- Use diagnostic tools and regular follow-ups to assess training effectiveness and adapt support strategies as needed.
- Ensure the successful adoption of best practices and business strategies that contribute to the sustainable growth of MSMEs.
Linking MSMEs to Funding Opportunities
- Identify appropriate funding opportunities for MSMEs and provide guidance throughout the application and negotiation process.
- Support MSMEs in preparing for and engaging with potential funders, ensuring that they are well-positioned to secure financing.
- Facilitate discussions between MSMEs and financial institutions, helping to bridge the gap between businesses and funding opportunities.
Facilitating Business Opportunities and Market Linkages
- Assist MSMEs in identifying and accessing new business opportunities, both within their local markets and beyond.
- Facilitate market linkages by connecting MSMEs with potential buyers, suppliers, and business partners.
- Support MSMEs in building long-term business relationships that contribute to their growth and market presence.
Ensuring Inclusivity and Gender Equity
- Ensure that all training and support activities are inclusive, specifically addressing the challenges faced by youth and women entrepreneurs.
- Design training programs that are accessible to marginalized groups and encourage their active participation in the MSME development process.
- Monitor the inclusion of women and youth in all MSME-related activities, ensuring they are provided with the tools and opportunities to succeed.
Collaboration and Reporting
- Collaborate closely with the Program Manager and other team members to ensure the seamless delivery of training services and alignment with overall program goals.
- Provide regular progress reports on the training activities, including feedback on the effectiveness of the training, the progress of MSMEs, and any adjustments needed.
- Support the program’s monitoring and evaluation efforts by contributing to data collection, analysis, and reporting on training outcomes.
Required Qualifications and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration,Agribusiness,Economics,Education or a related field.
- Minimum 2 years of experience in delivering business training, capacity building, or advisory services to MSMEs, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, leather, or essential oils.
- Experience in designing and delivering training programs tailored to the needs of small businesses, with a strong focus on practical, actionable content.
- Demonstrated ability to work with youth and women entrepreneurs, with a proven track record of fostering inclusion and supporting underrepresented groups.
- Strong communication and facilitation skills, with experience in conducting group training sessions and one-on-one advisory support.
- Proficiency in project management, monitoring, and reporting tools.
- Fluency in English; Swahili proficiency is an asset.