Transforming the entrepreneurial ecosystem by strengthening local capacities and stimulating inclusive growth
The activities of IYBA-SEED in Benin are fully aligned with the current government action plan and are based on the needs of beneficiaries identified during preliminary studies.
Diagnostics have highlighted a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem at the national level, with many actors concentrated in Cotonou, but less developed at the local level, particularly for Youth and Women.
Furthermore, given the specificities of rural areas and the employment potential in certain sectors, such as agriculture and handicrafts, a consensus is emerging to make municipalities the new centers of gravity for supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem and improving the business environment.
Activities of IYBA-SEED in Benin
- Mapping and structuring entrepreneurial ecosystems around priority sectors:
Creating connections between local actors, which includes analyzing, structuring, and mapping ecosystems to strengthen these links and the operational capacities of actors. - Support for public-private initiatives to boost business competitiveness:
Facilitating public-private consultations through workshops, partnerships on pilot projects, and capacity building in advocacy to overcome business competitiveness challenges. - Promotion and development of Local Centers for Entrepreneurship and Employment (CLEE):
Facilitating access to information, training, and support by establishing local centers connected to ecosystems. These centers will provide digital services and be tailored to the needs of young and women entrepreneurs. - Promoting an entrepreneurial culture with educational and academic actors in Benin:
Developing an entrepreneurial culture by networking universities, economic actors, and local authorities through promotional campaigns, the creation of specific training programs, and support for academic and student initiatives in favor of entrepreneurship. - Organizing events to change the perception of entrepreneurship:
Highlighting initiatives for young entrepreneurs through events such as the Entrepreneurship Month in Benin (2024 Edition) or the Local Days of the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (JLEE).
The IYBA-SEED Benin team presents a video showcasing its many activities over the last few months.
Building the capacity of Weavers to foster Innovative Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
The report "Building the capacity of Weavers to foster Innovative Entrepreneurial Ecosystems" and its annexes provide an overview of the design and implementation process, as well as tools and training materials developed to identify and support Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Weavers in South Africa.
IYBA toolbox for supporting early-stage African businesses
The IYBA Toolbox presents tried and tested solutions to widen access to finance and business support for early-stage businesses across Africa.
CESAM Report: an in-depth diagnosis of Togo's entrepreneurial ecosystem
The report aims to deepen our understanding of Togo's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
European foundations and their investments in small and growing businesses in emerging markets
A new report by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Sagana, explores how European foundations invest in small and growing businesses in emerging markets and developing economies.
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