Empowering Young Entrepreneurs Through Trainings, Technical Mentorship and Financial Literacy
Young entrepreneurs during the incubation program at LUANAR's Bunda Campus
The Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources - Technology and Agribusiness Center of Excellence (LUANAR-TACE), through its Agribiz Hub, and in partnership with the Malawi Agricultural and Industrial Investment Corporation (MAIIC), with support from the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), is implementing a transformative project.
About the Program
The project titled "Catalyzing Women and Youth Empowerment and Resilience in Agriculture through Access to Appropriate Finance" provides comprehensive business incubation and post-incubation support to youth- and women-led agribusinesses through the LUANAR-TACE incubation model.
This includes entrepreneurial training, technical mentorship, financial literacy, and market readiness assistance. A revolving loan facility has also been established to provide growth capital to high-potential SMEs graduating from the incubation program.
Program Highlights
- Duration: Five-day intensive program
- Venue: LUANAR's Bunda Campus
- Format: Two groups with interactive sessions
- Methods: Presentations, discussions, Q&A, and experience sharing
Training Structure & Impact
The five-day incubation program took place at LUANAR's Bunda Campus, commencing on 19th May 2025 and concluding on 23rd May 2025. The training was strategically divided into two groups, with the first group participating from 19th to 20th May, and the second group from 21st to 23rd May.
The sessions were conducted through a combination of presentations, discussions, Q&A, and experience sharing to foster an interactive and engaging learning environment. Participants gained valuable knowledge on:
- How to scale their businesses effectively
- Improving product quality and standards
- Accessing new markets and opportunities
- Modern farming methods and improved practices
- Securing loans and other financial support
Leadership Insights
Notably, on 20th May, AGRA Malawi's Director of Programs, Mr. Valentine Lihesuwa, YEFFA's Head of Programs in Africa, Ms. Catherine Rusagara, and other AGRA executives interacted with the young entrepreneurs. They emphasized the importance of having a solid business plan, fostering teamwork and partnerships, and maintaining consistency in running their businesses.
"You have to use the grants to build and drive your trade and business, and to develop a solid business plan. Grants alone won't give you consistent income or the development you're aiming for. What will drive change in your lives is a business that sustains and grows itself."- Ms. Catherine Rusagara, YEFFA's Head of Programs in Africa
Ms. Rusagara further emphasized: "Work together, share knowledge, and support each other — there is strength in numbers. Develop a sense of community if you are to achieve greater success."
"For most youths to access funding and grants, you need to have a solid, clear, and coherent business plan. If you run your business with vision and keep track of your gross income and needs, grants won't be a challenge."- Mr. Valentine Lihesuwa, AGRA Malawi's Director of Programs
Looking Forward
Mr. Lihesuwa also pointed out that in areas like poultry, beekeeping, and horticulture, AGRA works with implementation partners. Therefore, he encouraged participants involved in these value chains to link up with the AGRA executive team for continued support and collaboration.
The main objective of the incubation program was to refine the business ideas of young entrepreneurs so they could improve their operations and successfully launch new ventures. Essentially, they were equipped with the skills, capacity, and knowledge necessary to manage their businesses more effectively and create sustainable impact in their communities.
Interested in Our Programs?
Join our next incubation program and transform your business ideas into successful ventures.
Apply Now