SUCCESSFUL NETWORKING EVENT IN DAKAR BOOSTS ACCESS TO FINANCE FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
On March 15, 2025, a pivotal networking event titled "Access to Financing for Young Entrepreneurs" was held at ENFEFS, the National Training College for Household Economics and Social Studies, in Dakar, orchestrated by GFA Consulting Group under the German cooperation programme "Réussir au Sénégal." This gathering marked a significant milestone in the support and acceleration of entrepreneurial initiatives among the youth in the region.
The event was part of the ongoing support for the fourth cohort implementing the "Standard Approach" in the Dakar region, aimed at fortifying connections between young entrepreneurs and financial institutions. The Standard Approach, or 'Approche Standard,' is an adopted and standardized methodology for preparing young entrepreneurs to create their own businesses.
It covers all aspects from business plan creation to team management and digital marketing, featuring 20 distinct tools developed under the ‘Réussir au Sénégal’ programme. The day-long event featured key presentations and interactive sessions designed to facilitate networking and knowledge exchange among 15 Entrepreneurship Insertion Counselors (CIPE), 100 young project bearers and entrepreneurs, and 15 partnering institutions involved in microfinance and business start-up support.
The activities commenced with welcome remarks by Günter Diewald from GFA, followed by an overview of the "Réussir au Sénégal" programme. Francesca Bove presented the Standard Approach and detailed the day's agenda. The morning sessions allowed each financial institution to outline their funding opportunities, selection processes, and necessary documentation, fostering an engaging dialogue with the attendees.
A unique feature of the event was the "World Ataya," a structured conversation setup reminiscent of a café where institutions displayed their brochures and documentation on small tables. This setup enabled attendees to rotate among the tables, gathering information, making contacts, and networking extensively.
The event concluded with a ceremony where kits were distributed, and words of gratitude were expressed by the organisers. Additionally, the Direction de l’Insertion of the TVET Ministry was also present, praised the approach, and expressed commitment to its future dissemination.
This networking encounter not only met but exceeded its objectives by effectively presenting key financing programs, facilitating extensive networking among young entrepreneurs and financial advisors, and showcasing the resources and tools developed under the Standard Approach. The initiative promises significant impacts in fostering entrepreneurial growth and economic development in Senegal.
