Entrepreneurial culture is a key factor in driving economic growth and innovation
It reflects how entrepreneurship is perceived as a viable career path, with societies embracing entrepreneurs, their risk-taking, and even their failures as steps toward success. A positive entrepreneurial culture supports the creation and growth of businesses, contributing to dynamic economies.
However, many young people, and especially women, still view entrepreneurship as a last resort, often driven by necessity rather than opportunity. Societal norms, which traditionally link women to caregiving roles, create significant barriers to their entrepreneurial potential. These cultural perceptions need to change for a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Highlighting inspiring stories and strengthening entrepreneurial values
The IYBA-SEED program is dedicated to promoting a positive, inclusive entrepreneurial culture. By showcasing inspiring entrepreneurial stories, challenging stereotypes, and addressing negative attitudes, IYBA-SEED aims to motivate the next generation of business leaders, and supporting social and economic networks.
Education and training: a long-term strategy
Women and young entrepreneurs often face unique cultural challenges that hinder their success. This is why IYBA-SEED incorporates an inclusive approach into all its actions, aiming to eliminate stereotypes and provide targeted support.
The program also partners with universities, high schools and community learning centers to provide educational resources that focus on entrepreneurship skills, helping to overcome cultural barriers and raise awareness among young people.
Through these efforts, IYBA-SEED is working to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem where everyone, regardless of gender or background, has the opportunity to thrive and make a lasting impact as an entrepreneur.
Examples of activities
- Empower youth and women entrepreneurs through targeted initiatives, ranging from entrepreneurship summer camps with students in Benin, to social media campaigns on women entrepreneurs, Senegal.
- Integrate entrepreneurship into universities, vocational training or community learning centers fostering early exposure to entrepreneurial skills, Kenya, Senegal and Togo.
- Campaigns focusing on raising public awareness about entrepreneurship and/or showcasing role models Benin, Senegal and Togo.
- Regional awareness campaign, in cooperation with and co-funded by IYBA-WE4A, an animation film celebrating entrepreneurship in Africa.
