The recently concluded UGEFA Accelerator has set a new benchmark in post-investment capacity building, empowering enterprises to harness the full potential of their debt finance facilitated through the UGEFA project. Participants received personalised support to enhance financial management skills and drive growth, job creation, and a transition to a green economy.
Innovative Support for Sustainable Growth
Facilitated by local Business Development Services (BDS) providers, the Accelerator support employed a refined version of the UGEFA Catalyser methodology, which has proven effective in preparing enterprises for financial readiness. The focus was on practical tools and strategies, ensuring that entrepreneurs could immediately apply their learnings to real-world scenarios. Key themes explored included:
- Investment Management: Techniques for effectively managing received investments to maximise returns and sustain growth.
- Implementing Business Expansion Strategies: Practical approaches to scale operations while maintaining efficiency and productivity.
- Scaling Operations and Impact: Strategies to expand the reach and influence of enterprises, contributing positively to the economy and environment.
Participant Testimonials: Voices from the Workshops
The positive feedback from participants underscores the impact and value of the UGEFA Accelerator. Here they shared thought about their experiences:
Kigezi Forest Cottages Ltd: “I have never seen such a programme that supports an individual and walks with them until the project implementation and growth. The tools are totally different from other service providers, they are practical.”
Erussi Village Cooperative Savings and Credit Society Ltd: “Who supports you and again comes to support you? This has been the best programme.”
Didaka General Services Ltd: “The tools used in these workshops are the best thing I have ever interacted with since I started attending BDS Workshops. The UGEFA Business Advisors are interesting, and the training methodology they use keeps everyone active throughout the workshop.”
Empowering the Future through Impact
The UGEFA Accelerator is more than just training sessions, but a commitment to the sustained success and development of enterprises. By equipping businesses with essential skills and knowledge, the UGEFA Accelerator ensures that participants are able to secure financing and ready to navigate the challenges of growth and scale their operations sustainably.
Until July 2024, 88 SMEs successfully secured loans through the UGEFA project, raising a total of 26,941,735,249 UGX (approximately 6,775,602€) in debt finance. This significant financial support underscores the effectiveness of UGEFA’s approach in facilitating access to capital for green enterprises in Uganda.
As enterprises continue to benefit from this support, the broader impact on job creation and the green economy becomes increasingly evident. The UGEFA Accelerator is paving the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future by establishing a strong network of enterprise.
