UPG Biashara is an initiative that supports entrepreneurs in their journey to turn ideas into businesses. The unique ecosystem is built with a view that entrepreneurs make the world a better place and so they deserve support that maximises their chances of success. And this support is provided for free to 500 fortunate entrepreneurs who earn their place by demonstrating their ideas and their passion. The initiative is defined by two distinct journeys: the Learning Journey and the Action Journey. Grants are provided during the Action Journey and are possible through the Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant. The deadline to apply is 31 December 2021 and interested individuals can apply and learn more here: https://upglive.org/upgbiashara.
“Ha Re Eeng! Lesotho has priority in the UPG Biashara selection and there is a great chance that someone from Lesotho will also win funding thanks to the inspiring Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant,” said Yemi Babington-Ashaye. President, United People Global.
The Diamonds do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant is an accelerator of the impact that entrepreneurs can have in communities, with a special focus on small and medium size entrepreneurs. The Diamonds do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant is as inclusive as it is inspiring. Most entrepreneurs will win a minimum grant of USD 5,000 to be invested directly into their businesses. Some entrepreneurs will win higher amounts up to the maximum of USD 20,000.
“Diamonds Do Good® believes in the strength of community. By supporting entrepreneurs we are helping to shape a sustainable future for all”, said Nancy Orem Lyman. Executive Director, Diamonds Do Good®.
About UPG Biashara
UPG Biashara is an initiative that supports entrepreneurs in their journey to turn ideas into businesses. This includes growing and strengthening existing enterprises.
Biashara is a Kiswahili word for “business” and it emphasizes the fact that with this initiative UPG is supporting entrepreneurs and all those looking to create impact through business.
The program’s objectives for 2022:
- To certify at least 500 people who complete the training each year
- To support at least 500 people who are taking entrepreneurial action each year – in different ways
- To support at least 100 entrepreneurs running businesses each year
- To provide financial support to entrepreneurs ranging from USD 5,000 to USD 20,000
Selected Dates In the #UPGBiashara Timeline
1 October 2021
Applications Open for the Class of 2022 of UPGBiashara Entrepreneurs
31 December 2021
Applications CLOSE for the Class of 2022 of UPGBiashara Entrepreneurs
23 January 2022
Applicants are notified of the Selection for the Class of 2022
1 February 2022
The #UPGBiashara Journey begins
15 March 2022
Conclusion of the #UPGBiashara Learning Journey
April 2022
Decisions begin for the winners of the 2022 Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant