Small and Growing Businesses

When illness ended Stella King'ori's career as a university tutor, she faced a harsh reality. In Kenya, women with disabilities encounter significant barriers to economic independence. Through an innovative business training program, Stella transformed her small retail business, achieving 900% revenue growth and creating jobs for others. Her story reveals how social empowerment initiatives are breaking down stigma and creating opportunities for women with disabilities across Kenya.

When Virginie Adounon first opened her beauty salon in Bohicon, Benin, she was not keeping track of her sales or giving herself a salary, and she could not save up enough money to make necessary upgrades to her shop. After joining a TechnoServe program called BeniBiz, she gained the skills she needed to run a profitable business.

If you’re looking for a good book recommendation, look no further! This selection of fiction and nonfiction has been reviewed by TechnoServe readers from around the world. You’ll find thought-provoking books like “Hunger” that connect directly to our mission of ending poverty. There is fiction from authors like Jonathan Escoffery…

Editor’s Note: Originally posted on December 7, 2017 under the title, “Just Get Up and Do Something” – Updated version published on July 20, 2023 under the new title, “Sarah LaFleur’s Journey from TechnoServe Fellow to M.M.LaFleur Founder” Sarah LaFleur, a TechnoServe Fellow in South…

When Tamia’s health suffered, life became hard. By working with TechnoServe, she would eventually gain the tools to change her own life.

Through the Rwanda Ikawa Nziza Cyane “Best Quality Coffee” project, farmers are expected to increase their coffee yields and income.

Ten years ago, Namukolo was unemployed and in an abusive marriage. Today, she is a successful entrepreneur supporting her family on her own.

On the farm with two young women rebuilding after Hurricane Maria

During the COVID-19 pandemic, an entrepreneur's business in Nigeria was destroyed. Here's how he revived his dream and found success.

A new mother in Benin began making reusable diapers and menstrual pads after having her son. She quickly realized there was an opportunity to help other women by creating sustainable menstrual products – and empowering the next generation.