Starting a business is not as easy as many people think. It is not just about having money and finding a place to set up shop. Many businesses within and without Kenya have collapsed as soon as they are set up for lack of better market reconnaissance.
Kenya alone thrives on the wheels of entrepreneurship, commonly known as Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The SMEs employ about 86 percent of Kenya’s population and provides about 45.5 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Despite the fact that SMEs are key drivers of the Kenyan economy, stats from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) show that at least 450,000 of them are shutting down annually, about 30,000 monthly and about 1,000 daily.
Kenya and Africa are home to some of the world’s most forward-thinking entrepreneurs. Young Kenyans and Africans are proving that no matter the idea, or how simple a solution, they are creating impactful; change in the lives of others and in communities around the globe.
Sharp minds, and sharp brains but without the guide and the training to master and harness the skill to set up and run successful businesses is what ailing many entrepreneurs in Africa and Kenya in particular. Initiatives such as the Young Entrepreneurs Program by ALX Africa are an opportunity that should be maxed by any potential and aspiring entrepreneur.
“With ALX’s Young Entrepreneurs Program, we have made it our mission to support those who want to solve problems, build businesses, and create jobs,” said Fred Swaniker, the CEO of ALX.
The program provides entrepreneurs with the skills and support to go to the market successfully. ALX, through the program, has proved its commitment to creating 2 million opportunities for rising African talent across the continent by the year 2030.
“This program helps entrepreneurs gain the skills, support, and community you need to launch their business. It is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs with a demonstrated commitment to building a business and already have a minimum viable product, we provide the tools and accountability you need to attract customers and go to market,” added Fred.
Once within the program, entrepreneurs get opportunities to network and interact with entrepreneurs. Through these networks, they get to exchange ideas, share experiences, learn what has worked for others and what to change, and in the end, make new business partners and investors.
The beauty of this program is that the entrepreneur does not have to incur any costs to learn and be equipped. All that one needs is time, commitment, and will to learn. The deadline for applying for the next cohort is on the 18th of July and you can apply now through this link https://bit.ly/ALXYoungEntrepreneursSA