Fragile foundations
Artisans working in the informal economy may have learned their trade informally, working with friends or relatives. They may have a good basic understanding of their trade but lack business skills and the advanced technical knowledge they need to be successful in a competitive market. Global market changes can have a massive impact on relatively small or micro enterprises with poor financial reserves. Businesses can be hard hit by fluctuations in demand or the increased cost of raw materials.
Structured support
Through our Business Development programme, existing businesses are supported to meet their full potential. Project participants receive targeted top-up technical skills training, numeracy and literacy support, essential business management and marketing skills, and health and safety in the workplace training. They are guided through the process of registering their businesses, and receive start-up grants, trade-specific tool kits, mentorship services, helping business owners grow the capacity and profitability of their businesses. Flexible timetabling means artisans can continue running their businesses throughout the training period.
Building resilience
Project participants return to their businesses with skills and knowledge they can share with other business members, thus increasing the impact of our training. Businesses are empowered to manage their finances through Village Savings and Loans Association groups, and are encouraged to register their businesses to access formal banking services and bid for government employment contracts.
Business Development Projects
TRAX SPRING Forward Project 2026
40 women in northern Ghana are being supported to strengthen their agriculture businesses.
Find out more
YAF Dragons Den Business Development 2026
180 women’s enterprises facing challenges to success will receive bespoke training to support business growth.
Find out more
YouthCode Vocational Training 2025
Our 12-month project will support forty trainees to learn a trade and eight individuals to strengthen their existing businesses.
Find out more
YAF Masomphenya Project 2025
The Masompenya project will support women from female headed households and disadvantaged young people who cannot access formal training.
Find out moreDonate to support
Help business owners build their skills and grow their enterprises. Your support provides training, mentoring and practical resources to help businesses become more sustainable and profitable.
