Launch 150 Startup Youth Businesses in Kibra Slum

Over the past 3 months, we have made significant progress, launching 15 new businesses, bringing the total to 95 operational businesses. Additionally, 112 youth have been trained in business management, financial literacy, and digital marketing, with 78 entrepreneurs receiving tailored mentorship from business professionals.

To support business growth, 10 youth have accessed additional funding through our microfinance partners, and businesses under the program now serve over 300 customers weekly.

One inspiring success story is that of Amina, a 24-year-old resident of Kibra who had been struggling to make a living through casual labor. With training and seed funding from our program, she started a small grocery store specializing in affordable grocery for low-income families. Since launching in December, Amina has doubled her customer base, hired an assistant, and increased her daily income by 60%. Today, she dreams of expanding her business and supplying local restaurants, demonstrating the transformative power of access to resources and support.

Despite these successes, challenges remain, including limited access to capital and inadequate business infrastructure. Many youth require additional funding to scale their businesses, and we are working to expand partnerships with microfinance institutions to provide low-interest loans. Business infrastructure limitations, such as lack of storage and operational spaces, hinder growth, and we are exploring co-working and shared business spaces to support entrepreneurs. Strengthening mentorship and networking opportunities remains a priority to connect entrepreneurs with industry leaders and potential investors.

Your continued support is instrumental in reaching our goal of 150 businesses and beyond, ensuring a thriving youth-led economy in Kibra.

"I’m a young mother who had always dreamed of starting my own business, but I didn’t know where to begin. When I joined the program, I received the business development training I needed to turn my vision into reality. With the seed funding and mentorship I received, I started my tailoring business. Not long after, I was able to secure a contract to supply school uniforms, which allowed me to hire two more employees. Today, I’m not only supporting my family, but I’m also helping others by creating jobs in my community. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to grow my business and the continued support from the program." Mercy

In 2024, we completed business development training for the final cohort, bringing the total number of trained participants in 2024 to 100 mothers. Each entrepreneur received tailored mentorship and seed funding to help kick-start their ventures, resulting in the successful launch of 40 operational businesses in various sectors, including tailoring, food vending, and digital services. A highlight of the quarter was the Entrepreneurship Showcase event, where 50 entrepreneurs presented their startups, attracting over 200 attendees, including investors and community leaders. This exposure helped many secure new clients and investment commitments, boosting visibility and confidence among the participants.

We hope to support the remaing 50 entrepreneurs in 2025. Your kind donation today will go along in ensuring young mothers have access to sustainable businesses.