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EmpowerHER Project Overview
Background
Kosovo, which declared independence in 2008, has faced significant economic challenges following the near-total destruction of its infrastructure. While many Kosovars live abroad, a growing number of women are entering the workforce, albeit often in lower-wage positions. The disparities in labor force participation between men and women are stark, with only 21.5% of women participating compared to 58.9% of men. The unemployment rate for women stands at 33%, and for young women aged 15-24, it reaches 38.1%. These issues are exacerbated in rural areas, where cultural norms restrict women's access to property ownership and inheritance.
Project Goals
The EmpowerHER project aims to empower women in Kosovo through entrepreneurship, fostering economic independence and leadership skills. By targeting women from both urban and rural areas, the initiative seeks to contribute to the broader economic development of the country by equipping women with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in various sectors, including agriculture and fashion.
Program Structure
Workshops
The program consists of a series of workshops designed to cover essential topics for aspiring entrepreneurs:
Introduction to Entrepreneurship
Understanding the entrepreneurial mindset
Generating viable business ideas
Idea Development and Goal Setting
Skills for generating business ideas
Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) objectives
Analyzing different types of business plans
Financial Literacy
Basic financial principles and literacy
Overview of business types in Kosovo
Understanding the tax system and necessary forms
Market Research and Marketing
Conducting market research and segmentation
Developing sales and marketing strategies and tools
Business Presentation Skills
Crafting effective presentations to secure funding
Preparing to approach banks and grant organizations for financial support
Mentorship Program
Each participant will be paired with an experienced entrepreneur who will provide guidance throughout the program. This mentorship is crucial for developing a comprehensive business plan tailored to each woman's unique idea and market conditions.
Funding Opportunity
As a part of the pilot program, up to 20 women will be selected to receive startup funding of up to €5,000. This financial support will help to turn their business plans into reality, providing them with the resources needed to launch their ventures and drive economic growth
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