Bethany Peevy Downie

As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the TechnoServe Fellows Program, we look back to the origin of the program with the very first fellows.

Find out how Bahula Naturals built a successful climate-resilient business in the 122°F desert, proving that practical tech and a focus on women farmers can keep a traditional community thriving. 

Explore what defines extreme poverty today and the practical, market-led solutions that help families break the cycle. From addressing women's economic empowerment to building climate resilience, learn how strategic shifts in local markets create lasting economic growth and better futures.

This International Women's Day, read what women farmers and entrepreneurs around the world have taught TechnoServe staff about resilience, leadership, and community.

Private equity investor Joe Manning has volunteered twice as a TechnoServe Fellow—first helping Tanzanian coffee farmers in 2010, then returning 15 years later with his family to support Kenyan entrepreneurs. His hands-on experience has made him a passionate advocate for TechnoServe's business-focused approach to fighting poverty.

Starting a business is never easy—especially in a sector where there are few women entrepreneurs. Joyce Chika overcame financial barriers and beliefs that as a woman she is not suited to work in Botswana's tourism sector, to build No. 1 Lady Tours and Safaris. With support from the Tokafala program, she turned her passion into a thriving business that also supports young entrepreneurs. Tokafala is implemented by TechnoServe and is a collaboration between the Government of Botswana, Debswana, De Beers Group, and Anglo American.

They've proved that a profitable business can go hand in hand with social impact. Hear three entrepreneurs share in their own words how they built their businesses and why they are hopeful for the future.

Discover how a small group of Ethiopian farmers built an award-winning coffee cooperative that transformed their community from forgotten to flourishing.

On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, we're recognizing three donors who support TechnoServe's mission to create sustainable pathways out of poverty. Hear from Alison Conway, Susan Ball, and Matt Kamm about why they are personally motivated to help eradicate poverty.

In West Africa, youth are turning to radical groups as a way to gain social and economic security. Discover how TechnoServe programs are changing this dynamic by offering a pathway to prosperity through sustainable jobs.