Update on India Business Training Program |
As an update to the Spring pilot program in India (see Jan. 2nd article) through our partnership with Accion, the training pilot was conducted in the first quarter of 2008 using 7 newly translated “Training of Trainer” (TOT) modules. Based on the number of facilitators, number of participants, and general participant satisfaction, the success of this first pilot was deemed very promising. The TOT Pilot included 50 potential trainers with a goal to have at least 25 certified trainers graduate as a result. This intensive classroom-training pilot included the general program for licensing trainers that is used in Accion’s Latin America program. The next step is to launch the business-training pilot itself. Currently, Accion is in the middle of translating 13 business educational modules in time for an October 2008 launch. The estimate for the first micro-business pilot is approximately 50 participants.
This successful partnership and innovative program will now allow trainers to be able to reach families in locations throughout India, allowing them to receive the education necessary to manage microenterprises. Ultimately, support of these programs underscores the multiplier effect achieved whereby access to solid microeconomic opportunities benefits parents and consequently children.
Accion International is a private, nonprofit organization with the mission of giving people the financial tools they need to work their way out of poverty. By providing “micro” loans, business training and other financial services to poor men and women who start their own businesses, ACCION helps people work their way up the economic ladder, with dignity and pride. For more on Accion International please visit www.accion.org.