Girls Entrepreneurship Incubator
The current landscape presents a significant disparity in funding and opportunities for women in entrepreneurship. Despite women-owned businesses representing approximately 40% of all businesses across the nation, they received only 7% of venture funds for their startups in 2021. Shockingly, women often ask for $33,000 less than men in business financing and receive less funding, despite statistics revealing that women outperform men by 63% in venture-backed businesses.
In Iowa, the situation is even more challenging, with only 17.5% of new businesses started by women, which is significantly lower than the national average. Additionally, minority-owned businesses comprise only 6.2% of these ventures. This disparity can be attributed to various barriers that hinder women's participation in entrepreneurship, including lack of education and adequate exposure to ideation, limited access to network and support systems, gender bias and stereotypes, and a lack of representation in STEM fields. It is evident that there is a critical need for initiatives that empower and support young women and girls, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to overcome the barriers they face in entrepreneurship.
The Girls' Entrepreneurship Incubator is specifically designed in response to these challenges. Our program is open to all young women between the ages of 14 and 22, aiming to unleash untapped potential in future female innovators and entrepreneurs, irrespective of their background or current skill level.
The Girls' Entrepreneurship Incubator is open to all young women between the ages of 14 and 22, aiming to unleash untapped potential in future female innovators and entrepreneurs, irrespective of their background or current skill level. Through a comprehensive custom curriculum, mentorship, and networking opportunities, we equip these young women with the necessary skills, resources, and support to launch their own businesses successfully.
The key components of the Girls' Entrepreneurship Incubator include:
Skills Development: We provide workshops and training sessions covering various aspects of entrepreneurship, including ideation, business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and leadership skills.
Mentorship: Each participant is paired with a dedicated mentor who provides guidance, support, and industry-specific knowledge throughout the program. Our mentors are experienced entrepreneurs and professionals committed to empowering the next generation of female leaders.
Resource Access: We connect participants with resources such as funding opportunities, legal guidance, business networks, and access to collaborative workspaces, ensuring they have the tools needed to transform their entrepreneurial ideas into thriving businesses.
Networking Events: We organize networking events, pitch competitions, and panel discussions that foster connections with successful entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. These events create valuable opportunities for participants to expand their networks and gain insights from established professionals.
College credits: We partner with the John Pappajohn Center at the university of Iowa for entrepreneurship college credit
By investing in the Girls' Entrepreneurship Incubator, we contribute to breaking down the barriers faced by young women and empower them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Your support will directly impact the lives of these aspiring entrepreneurs and have a ripple effect on the local economy and community.
Our solution, the Girls' Entrepreneurship Incubator, serves young women between the ages of 14 and 22, with a particular focus on underserved communities in Iowa and those from low-income backgrounds. Here's how our solution impacts their lives:
Access and Inclusion: We strive to make our program accessible to young women who may face barriers to entry due to socioeconomic factors. By offering the program free of charge, we ensure that cost is not a hindrance and create equal opportunities for participation.
Skill Development and Empowerment: Our program equips participants with essential entrepreneurial skills, such as idea generation, business planning, marketing, and financial management. By developing these skills, participants gain the knowledge and confidence to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations, empowering them to take charge of their economic futures.
Mentorship and Guidance: We provide participants with mentors who offer guidance, support, and industry-specific knowledge. These mentors play a crucial role in navigating the entrepreneurial journey, offering insights, advice, and networking opportunities. For young women from underserved communities, having access to mentors can be transformative in terms of building networks and navigating unfamiliar pathways.
Economic Mobility: By empowering young women in underserved communities and low-income backgrounds to start their own businesses, our solution aims to create economic mobility. Entrepreneurship can provide an avenue for financial independence and wealth creation, breaking the cycle of limited opportunities and contributing to long-term economic well-being.
Community Support and Networks: Our program fosters a supportive community where participants can connect with like-minded individuals and build valuable networks. For young women from underserved communities, this network offers support, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities that may otherwise be lacking in their immediate surroundings.
Confidence and Self-Esteem: The Girls' Entrepreneurship incubator promotes self-confidence and self-esteem among participants. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, we encourage young women from underserved communities to believe in their abilities and potential as entrepreneurs. This increased confidence has a positive impact on their overall personal and professional lives.
Role Models and Representation: Our program showcases successful women entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds as role models. By highlighting the achievements of entrepreneurs from different communities, we inspire participants and demonstrate that entrepreneurship is accessible to them, regardless of their background or income level.
By serving young women from Underserved /Underrepresented communities, including those from low-income backgrounds, our solution seeks to address systemic inequalities and provide them with the tools, resources, and networks necessary to succeed in entrepreneurship. We believe that by empowering these young women, we can create a more equitable and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering economic growth and social mobility in Iowa's underserved communities.
Our team is well-positioned to deliver the Girls' Entrepreneurship Incubator program due to our expertise, experience, and strategic partnerships. Here's why:
Nancy Mwirotsi, Founder of Pi515: Nancy is a visionary leader and entrepreneur with extensive experience in the field of education, technology, and entrepreneurship. Her passion for empowering underserved communities and promoting diversity in tech and entrepreneurship is the driving force behind the Girls' Entrepreneurship program. With her leadership, Pi515 has successfully implemented numerous programs that have positively impacted young people's lives. Nancy Mwirotsi was recognized by Goldman Sachs as one of the 50 most impactful black women in the USA, acknowledging her significant contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Furthermore, she received the SBA Iowa Women Champion Award and was honored with the Iowa Business Record Entrepreneur Innovator Award, both in 2022. These prestigious accolades highlight Nancy's dedication, innovation, and leadership in driving positive change for women entrepreneurs in Iowa and beyond. Her recognition further exemplifies her commitment to empowering young women through the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program and positions her as a respected and influential figure in the entrepreneurial community.
Expertise in Entrepreneurship Education: Our team has a deep understanding of entrepreneurship education and the specific needs of young women in this field. We have developed a curriculum tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by aspiring women entrepreneurs. Our team members, including mentors and workshop facilitators,who have firsthand experience in entrepreneurship, providing participants with practical knowledge and guidance.
Strategic Partnerships: We have established strategic partnerships with organizations like the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers at all Iowa State, University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa and Drake University. These partnerships provide us with access to college credit, resources, networks, and expertise in entrepreneurship. Collaborating with the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers allows us to leverage their extensive experience and connections to support the success of our program.
Network of Mentors and Industry Experts: Our team has built a network of experienced mentors and industry experts who are passionate about supporting young women in entrepreneurship. These mentors bring valuable knowledge, connections, and guidance to our program participants, ensuring they receive personalized support and mentorship.
Track Record of Success: Our team has a proven track record of delivering impactful programs that empower young people in technology and entrepreneurship. We have successfully implemented initiatives that have helped participants launch businesses, gain scholarships, and pursue successful careers in STEM fields. This success demonstrates our ability to design and execute programs that create real change.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Our team deeply values diversity and inclusion, and we actively incorporate these principles into our program. By embracing diversity in our team, mentors, and participants, we create a rich and inclusive learning environment that celebrates different perspectives and experiences.
Through the expertise, leadership, strategic partnerships, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, our team is well-equipped to deliver the Girls' Entrepreneurship incubator effectively. We are dedicated to empowering young women, providing them with the skills, resources, and support they need to succeed as entrepreneurs and make a positive impact in their communities.
- Enable women STEM entrepreneurs to participate and thrive in the entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing access to capital, resources, or network-building, or diversifying the investor landscape.
- Growth: An organization with an established product, service, or business model that is rolled out in one or more communities
Served upwards of 1,000 individuals.
We are applying to the Challenge because it provides an exceptional opportunity to advance our mission of empowering young women in entrepreneurship through the Girls' Entrepreneurship Incubator. We believe that partnering with Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can help us overcome specific barriers we face and amplify our impact. Here's how we envision their support:
Financial Barriers: Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can provide financial resources, including grants and investments, to help us sustain and expand the Girls' Entrepreneurship incubator program. Their support can alleviate financial constraints, allowing us to offer the program free of charge, provide necessary resources to participants, and reach a larger number of young women, particularly those from underserved communities and low-income backgrounds.
Technical Assistance: Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can offer technical expertise and guidance to help us leverage technology effectively. This includes optimizing our program delivery through digital platforms, developing online resources and tools, and exploring innovative approaches to enhance participant engagement, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Legal and Regulatory Support: Partnering with Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can provide access to legal and regulatory expertise, helping us navigate legal requirements and compliance related to entrepreneurship programs, youth engagement, data protection, and privacy. The guidance can ensure that our program operates within the legal framework, minimizing risks and ensuring participant safety.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusion: Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can offer guidance and best practices for creating a culturally sensitive and inclusive program. The support can help us design curriculum content, mentorship approaches, and outreach strategies that respect and value the diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences of our participants. We can develop cultural competency frameworks to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for young women from different communities.
Market Connections and Partnerships: Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures bring extensive networks and connections in various sectors. Partnering together can open doors to strategic collaborations, allowing us to establish partnerships with corporations, educational institutions, entrepreneurship organizations, and community leaders. These partnerships can provide access to resources, mentorship networks, internship opportunities, and potential funding sources, enhancing the program's impact and creating pathways for participants' success.
By partnering with Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures, we aim to overcome financial barriers, leverage technical expertise, navigate legal requirements, foster cultural sensitivity and inclusion, and establish key partnerships. This support will enable us to reach a wider audience, scale our program sustainably, and empower more young women from underserved communities and low-income backgrounds in their entrepreneurial pursuits. Together, we can create a transformative impact and foster a more equitable and inclusive landscape for women in entrepreneurship.
Executive Director, Nancy Mwirotsi, has dedicated her life to advocating for underrepresented individuals, including refugees, young women, and people of color. She believes success comes from opportunity. She compels local and national community members and organizations to empower hundreds of students to build skills for the future. These skills start with afterschool STEM education. Each student served is given the support they need to garner influence and gain stability in their families and communities.
Nancy courageously started something from nothing because she saw a need and an opportunity. While helping refugee mothers in the community obtain jobs, she realized that their children needed support, too. She understood that because these students would perhaps be the first in their families to complete high school or attend college, they needed a pathway for their success. Pursuit of Innovation (Pi515) was founded to help build these pathways. Since its inception in 2014, Nancy and Pi515 have seen over 150 students graduate high school and seek post-secondary education. She provides these youth with confidence and skills for the future. One thing that has remained constant from the beginning is Nancy's ability to create lasting personal relationships with Pi515 students and their families. In 2021, she led a state-wide Digital Inclusion campaign that provided free hotspots and basic digital literacy skills to over 300 Iowans.
Nancy was named the 2022 Iowa Innovation Entrepreneur by the Des Moines Business Record and the 2022 Iowa Women Champion by the Iowa Small Business Administration for her innovation in the tech education space. In 2020, Nancy received the Nation of Neighbors award by the Royal Neighbors of America. Entrepreneur and Philanthropist John Pappajohn recognized Nancy’s accomplishments by bestowing upon Pi515 significant funding.
Our solution, the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program, stands out for its innovative approach in several ways:
Holistic Approach: Our program takes a comprehensive and holistic approach to empowering young women in entrepreneurship. It goes beyond just imparting business knowledge and skills by incorporating mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources. This holistic approach ensures that participants receive well-rounded support to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Inclusivity: We prioritize inclusivity by making the program open to all young women between the ages of 14 and 22, irrespective of their background or current skill level. We aim to reach and empower a diverse group of participants, including those from underserved communities and underrepresented backgrounds, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Mentorship Model: Our program places a strong emphasis on mentorship, pairing each participant with a dedicated mentor who provides guidance, support, and industry-specific knowledge. This personalized mentorship model allows for tailored guidance, individualized support, and the establishment of meaningful connections between mentors and participants.
Collaboration and Partnerships: We actively seek collaborations and partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations. By leveraging existing resources and networks, we maximize the impact of our program and provide participants with expanded opportunities, access to expertise, and a wider support network.
Long-Term Perspective: Our solution goes beyond the duration of the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program. We aim to track the progress of participants beyond the program, providing ongoing support, resources, and networking opportunities to ensure their long-term success. This long-term perspective sets us apart, as we are committed to supporting young women throughout their entrepreneurial journey.
Focus on Empowerment: Our program is designed to empower young women and girls, not only in entrepreneurship but also in their overall personal and professional lives. We strive to instill confidence, resilience, and leadership skills, equipping participants with the mindset and tools needed to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in the world.
Through these innovative approaches, our Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program offers a unique and transformative experience for young women, setting them on a path to entrepreneurial success while fostering a supportive and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Our impact goals for the next year and the next five years are aligned with our commitment to empowering young women in entrepreneurship and creating a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Here are our goals and how we plan to achieve them:
Next Year:
Increase Participation: Our goal is to increase participation in the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program by 100% compared to the previous year. We will achieve this by expanding our outreach efforts through partnerships with schools, community organizations, and online platforms. We will also leverage social media and targeted marketing campaigns to reach a wider audience of young women.
Enhance Program Curriculum: We aim to continuously improve and enhance our program curriculum to ensure it remains relevant and impactful. We will gather feedback from participants, mentors, and stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and incorporate new topics and trends in entrepreneurship. This iterative approach will ensure that our program stays aligned with the evolving needs of young women in entrepreneurship.
Strengthen Mentorship Network: We will focus on expanding and diversifying our mentorship network to provide participants with a wide range of industry expertise and perspectives. Through strategic partnerships and mentor recruitment efforts, we will identify experienced professionals and entrepreneurs who can guide and inspire our participants effectively.
Next Five Years:
Scale Program Reach: Our long-term goal is to scale the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program's reach across Iowa. We aim to expand our program to more cities and regions, ensuring that young women from all corners of the state have access to our resources and support. This will be achieved through strategic partnerships, funding collaborations, and leveraging technology for virtual program delivery.
Measure Long-term Impact: We will establish a long-term impact measurement framework to track the progress of program participants beyond the immediate program duration. By collecting data on their business growth, leadership roles, and contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, we will assess the lasting impact of our program and continuously improve our approach.
Collaborate with Ecosystem Stakeholders: To create a more inclusive and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, we will actively collaborate with key stakeholders such as government agencies, funding organizations, educational institutions, and industry associations. By fostering these partnerships, we can advocate for policy changes, secure funding opportunities, and provide a seamless support network for young women in entrepreneurship.
Alumni Network and Continued Support: We will establish an alumni network to provide ongoing support, networking opportunities, and resources to program graduates. This network will serve as a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mentorship among successful women entrepreneurs, creating a strong community that nurtures and supports the next generation.
By setting clear impact goals, continuously evaluating our progress, and adapting our strategies, we are confident in our ability to empower young women in entrepreneurship and make a significant and lasting impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Iowa over the next year and the next five years.
To measure our progress toward our impact goals, we employ a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework that includes both qualitative and quantitative indicators. Here are the key elements of our measurement approach:
Data Collection: We collect relevant data throughout the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program, including pre-program surveys, participant assessments, mentor feedback, and program evaluations. These data points allow us to gather information on participants' knowledge, skills, confidence, and overall experience.
Impact Indicators: We establish impact indicators aligned with our goals, such as the number of participants who successfully launch their businesses, secure funding, or enter leadership roles. We also track qualitative indicators, such as changes in participants' self-perception, increased confidence, and expanded networks.
Program Evaluation: We conduct periodic evaluations to assess the effectiveness of our program. This includes gathering feedback from participants, mentors, and other stakeholders through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Evaluations provide valuable insights into program strengths, areas for improvement, and participant satisfaction.
Long-term Tracking: We aim to track the progress of program participants beyond the duration of the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit. This allows us to understand the long-term impact of our program on participants' entrepreneurial journeys, business growth, and career advancement.
Partner Collaboration: We collaborate with external partners, such as educational institutions, funding organizations, and industry professionals, to leverage their expertise and resources. Through partnerships, we can access additional data and insights to assess the wider impact of our program on the entrepreneurial ecosystem and identify areas for further collaboration and improvement.
Benchmarking and Comparison: We compare our program outcomes and impact against relevant benchmarks, industry standards, and previous cohorts to understand the progress made over time. This helps us identify areas where we have excelled and areas where further focus and improvement are needed.
Continuous Improvement: We use the collected data and evaluation findings to drive continuous improvement of our program. By identifying areas of strength and areas for enhancement, we make data-informed adjustments to curriculum, mentorship strategies, and overall program design to ensure maximum effectiveness.
By employing this monitoring and evaluation framework, we can track our progress, assess our impact, and make informed decisions to continuously improve our Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program. This iterative approach allows us to adapt and refine our strategies to better support the aspirations and success of young women in entrepreneurship.
Our solution, the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program, is designed to address the problem of limited support and resources for female entrepreneurs in Iowa. We believe that by empowering young women and girls with the necessary skills, knowledge, and opportunities, we can make a significant impact on their lives and the overall entrepreneurial landscape.
Here's how and why we expect our solution to have an impact:
Building Skills: Through workshops and training sessions, we teach participants important skills like coming up with business ideas, creating plans, marketing strategies, managing finances, and becoming effective leaders. By equipping them with these skills, we are preparing them to start and run successful businesses.
Access to Mentors: Each participant is paired with a mentor who is an experienced entrepreneur or professional. These mentors provide guidance, support, and industry-specific knowledge to help participants navigate challenges and make informed decisions. Having a mentor can make a significant difference in their entrepreneurial journey.
Connecting with Resources: We connect participants to resources such as funding opportunities, legal guidance, business networks, and collaborative workspaces. Access to these resources can remove barriers and provide the tools they need to turn their ideas into thriving businesses.
Networking Opportunities: Our program organizes networking events, pitch competitions, and panel discussions that allow participants to meet successful entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. These interactions create valuable connections, open doors for partnerships, and provide exposure to opportunities that can help their businesses grow.
Confidence and Empowerment: By participating in the program, young women gain confidence in their abilities and feel empowered to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. We believe that empowerment plays a crucial role in overcoming challenges and taking bold steps towards success.
Creating a Supportive Community: Our program brings together a community of like-minded young women who share similar aspirations. This supportive environment allows participants to learn from each other, collaborate, and form lasting relationships. Building a community where they feel understood and supported can boost their motivation and resilience.
By providing the necessary skills, mentorship, resources, networking opportunities, and a supportive community, we believe our solution can have a positive impact on the lives of young women and girls. We expect them to gain the confidence, knowledge, and resources needed to launch successful businesses, contribute to the economy, and become influential leaders in their communities.
Through our program, we aim to create a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Iowa, where women have equal opportunities and representation. We believe that by addressing the problem at its roots and empowering young women, we can bring about lasting change and unlock the untapped potential of female entrepreneurs.
Our solution, the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program, is not primarily tech-based. However, we do utilize various technology tools and platforms to enhance program delivery, accessibility, and engagement. Here are some of the core technologies we utilize:
Online Learning Platforms: We leverage online learning platforms to deliver program content, including workshops, training materials, and resources. These platforms enable participants to access educational content at their convenience, from any location with an internet connection.
Communication and Collaboration Tools: We utilize communication and collaboration tools, such as video conferencing platforms, messaging apps, and project management software, to facilitate mentor-student interactions, virtual workshops, and team collaborations. These tools enable seamless communication, real-time feedback, and efficient coordination among program participants and mentors.
Virtual Networking Events: We leverage virtual networking platforms and event management tools to organize online networking events, pitch competitions, and panel discussions. These platforms enable participants to connect with successful entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders remotely, fostering valuable connections and opportunities.
Online Resources and Research Tools: We leverage digital resources, online databases, and research tools to provide participants with access to relevant industry information, funding opportunities, market research data, and business planning resources. These tools support participants in gathering crucial information for their entrepreneurial journey.
Data Analytics and Evaluation Tools: We utilize data analytics and evaluation tools to collect, analyze, and evaluate program data, participant feedback, and impact metrics. These tools help us measure the effectiveness of our program, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to enhance the program's impact over time.
While technology plays a supporting role in our solution, our focus remains on empowering young women in entrepreneurship through mentorship, skill development, resources, and a supportive community. We strive to strike a balance between leveraging technology for program delivery and maintaining the personal touch and human connection that are essential in mentorship and entrepreneurship education.
- Nonprofit
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At Pi515 and in our Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program, we are deeply committed to incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) principles into our work. We believe that fostering a diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem is not only morally imperative but also vital for innovation, economic growth, and social progress. Here's our approach to DEI:
Accessibility and Outreach: We actively work to make our program accessible to young women from diverse backgrounds. We prioritize outreach efforts to underserved communities, schools, and organizations, ensuring that our program reaches those who may face systemic barriers or lack access to entrepreneurial resources. We aim to create equal opportunities for all participants, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, or geographic location.
Inclusive Curriculum: Our program curriculum is designed to be inclusive and representative of diverse experiences and perspectives. We incorporate case studies, examples, and discussions that highlight the achievements and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs from various backgrounds. By embracing diversity in our curriculum, we promote understanding, empathy, and cultural sensitivity among participants.
Diverse Mentorship Network: We actively seek mentors from diverse backgrounds to ensure that participants have access to a range of perspectives and role models. We strive to create a mentorship network that reflects the diversity of our participant pool. Having mentors from diverse backgrounds helps participants see themselves represented, fosters cultural understanding, and provides relatable guidance.
Safe and Inclusive Spaces: We prioritize creating safe and inclusive spaces where participants feel comfortable expressing themselves, sharing their ideas, and seeking support. We have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, or bias. We promote open dialogue, respect for diverse opinions, and create an environment where everyone's voice is valued.
Collaborative Partnerships: We actively collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including community organizations, educational institutions, and businesses that prioritize DEI. By working together, we can leverage our collective expertise, networks, and resources to amplify the impact of our DEI efforts and promote a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Continuous Learning and Improvement: We recognize that DEI is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to continuous learning and improvement. We engage in regular self-assessment, seek feedback from participants and mentors, and actively incorporate learnings from DEI research and best practices. We adapt our strategies, policies, and program design to ensure we address the evolving needs and challenges related to DEI.
By incorporating DEI principles into our work, we aim to create a more equitable and inclusive environment where young women from all backgrounds can thrive, succeed, and contribute to entrepreneurship. We recognize that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords, but essential pillars for driving innovation, social impact, and economic growth in our community and beyond.
Our business model for the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program incorporates various elements to ensure its sustainability and impact. Here are the key aspects of our business model:
Program Fees: Our Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program is offered completely free of charge to participants. We believe in removing financial barriers and ensuring accessibility for all young women interested in entrepreneurship. We rely on grants, sponsorships, donations, and strategic partnerships to cover the program costs and sustain its operations. These sources of funding allow us to provide a high-quality program experience, including mentorship, workshops, resources, and networking opportunities, without any financial burden on the participants. By offering the program free of charge, we are dedicated to promoting inclusivity, creating equal opportunities, and empowering young women from diverse backgrounds to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams..
Grants and Sponsorships: We actively seek grants and sponsorships from government entities, philanthropic organizations, corporate sponsors, and community foundations that align with our mission and values. These grants and sponsorships provide essential financial support to cover program costs, expand program reach, and enhance the resources and opportunities available to participants.
Strategic Partnerships: We collaborate with educational institutions, community organizations, and businesses to establish strategic partnerships. These partnerships can provide in-kind contributions such as venue space, technology resources, guest speakers, and access to networks, amplifying our program's impact while reducing costs.
Donations and Fundraising: We engage in fundraising efforts and accept donations from individuals, businesses, and supporters who are passionate about promoting entrepreneurship and gender equity. These donations contribute to program sustainability, allow for program expansion, and enable us to offer financial assistance to participants who may require additional support.
Alumni Network and Alumni Support: We establish an alumni network to create a sense of community among program graduates. Alumni are encouraged to contribute back to the program through mentorship, guest speaking, or providing financial support. Alumni involvement helps sustain the program and fosters a culture of giving back to the next generation of participants.
Social Enterprise Initiatives: We explore potential social enterprise initiatives, such as offering specialized workshops, consulting services, or educational resources to generate additional revenue streams. These initiatives leverage our expertise and resources to create value for external stakeholders while supporting the sustainability of our core program.
Impact Measurement and Reporting: We recognize the importance of demonstrating the impact of our program to attract funding, partnerships, and support. We invest in robust impact measurement and reporting systems to track and communicate the outcomes, achievements, and success stories of our program participants. This enables us to showcase our program's value and attract further support.
By combining program fees, grants, sponsorships, strategic partnerships, donations, alumni engagement, social enterprise initiatives, and impact reporting, our business model ensures the sustainability and growth of the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program, allowing us to continue empowering young women in entrepreneurship and making a lasting impact in our community.
- Individual consumers or stakeholders (B2C)
Our plan for achieving financial sustainability revolves around diversifying our revenue streams and leveraging various strategies to support the long-term viability of the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program. Here are the key components of our plan:
Grants and Sponsorships: We will continue to actively pursue grants and sponsorships from government entities, philanthropic organizations, corporate partners, and community foundations. These funding sources can provide essential support to cover program costs, expand our reach, and enhance the resources and opportunities available to participants.
Strategic Partnerships: We will establish strategic partnerships with educational institutions, community organizations, and businesses. These partnerships can offer in-kind contributions, such as venue space, technology resources, guest speakers, and access to networks. Collaborating with like-minded organizations can help us reduce costs, broaden our impact, and tap into additional funding opportunities.
Fundraising and Donations: We will engage in fundraising efforts and actively seek donations from individuals, businesses, and supporters who align with our mission. Fundraising events, online crowdfunding campaigns, and targeted donation appeals will be implemented to generate financial support and sustain the program.
Social Enterprise Initiatives: We will explore potential social enterprise initiatives to generate additional revenue streams. These may include offering specialized workshops, consulting services, or educational resources to external stakeholders. By leveraging our expertise and resources, we can create value while supporting the sustainability of our core program.
Alumni Engagement: We will establish a strong alumni network and cultivate relationships with program graduates. Alumni will be encouraged to contribute back to the program through mentorship, volunteering, or providing financial support. Alumni involvement can play a pivotal role in sustaining the program and fostering a culture of giving back.
Impact Investment and Earned Income: As our program demonstrates its impact and potential, we will explore opportunities for impact investment and seek sustainable sources of earned income. This may involve developing revenue-generating initiatives, such as fee-based advanced entrepreneurship programs or consulting services, while maintaining our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
Continuous Financial Management and Efficiency: We will maintain rigorous financial management practices, ensuring cost efficiency, budget optimization, and prudent financial decision-making. Regular financial monitoring, reporting, and transparent accountability will be key to maintaining financial sustainability.
By combining these strategies, we aim to achieve financial sustainability while preserving the accessibility and impact of the Girls' Entrepreneurship Summit program. Our focus remains on empowering young women in entrepreneurship, and we are committed to balancing financial viability with our mission of promoting inclusivity and creating equal opportunities.
In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we have identified specific indicators to measure our progress toward our impact goals. Here's how we align our measurement approach with the SDGs:
Goal 5: Gender Equality: We track the number of participants from underrepresented groups, including women of color and marginalized communities, to ensure inclusivity and address gender disparities in entrepreneurship.
Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth: We measure the number of participants who successfully launch businesses, create job opportunities, and contribute to economic growth. We also track their business revenue and the number of sustainable business models established.
Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: We evaluate the development of participants' innovative ideas, their use of technology, and their adoption of sustainable business practices. This includes tracking the integration of sustainable technologies and processes within their businesses.
Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities: We assess the representation and participation of young women from diverse backgrounds, including socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, and geographic location, to ensure we are addressing inequalities in entrepreneurship.
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals: We measure the number of strategic partnerships established with government entities, philanthropic organizations, educational institutions, and businesses. These partnerships enable us to leverage resources, networks, and expertise to amplify our impact and achieve greater sustainability.
By aligning our measurement approach with the UN SDGs, we ensure that our program's impact is contributing to the broader global agenda for sustainable development. We believe that by empowering young women in entrepreneurship and addressing the specific goals outlined by the UN, we can create lasting change and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world.
Founder and Executive Director