At the beginning of Fonkoze’s first Step, our Chemen Lavi Miyò (CLM) program, new members participate in a six-day enterprise training workshop, during which they prepare to manage the assets provided to them by CLM. Every three months afterwards, they participate in four-day review sessions to hone their new skills. The core of their training, however, takes place during one-on-one weekly meetings with their case managers. Over the course of the 18-month CLM program, they review their business decisions with their case managers and learn to plan strategically, using their newfound financial security to think beyond how they will find their next meal. By the program’s end, CLM members have the skills to act as confident small businesswomen.
For Solidarity-lending clients, Fonkoze offers them the opportunity to participate in a three-month Business Skills class. Although the majority of Solidarity clients are already operating (or already have experience operating) a small business before joining Fonkoze, many lack basic knowledge of product differentiation, budgets, and financial planning. The Business Skills class enables them to increase their profits and manage their businesses more successfully.
