INVESTO IN SENEGAL

INVESTO IN SENEGAL: for economic, social, and solidarity-based development

The initiative aims to strengthen the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) in Senegal by promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth that enhances the connection between the country and its diaspora in Italy.
The project contributes to creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem capable of generating a positive impact on local communities—particularly in the most vulnerable regions of Senegal (Saint Louis, Kedougou, Ziguinchor, and other areas), and fostering co-development between Italy and Senegal.

E4Impact focuses on strengthening the technical, managerial, and financial skills and capacities of SSE actors, with the aim of improving the performance and sustainability of social enterprises and cooperatives. The approach combines training, coaching, mentoring, and access to finance, involving both experts from the Senegalese diaspora in Italy and local professionals to promote the exchange of skills and sustainable business models.

E4Impact activities include:

• Support for the selection of final beneficiaries: selecting and strengthening a final cohort of 50 entrepreneurs from an initial pool of 300 SSE participants.
• Practical and managerial training: intensive sessions on business models, market strategy, digital leadership, accounting and finance, and pitching.
• Personalized coaching and mentoring: provided by a network of local and international experts to apply acquired skills and improve the management of social enterprises.
• Support for access to finance: through connections with microfinance institutions and investors.
• Final Pitch Event: facilitating connections between beneficiary enterprises and financial partners, creating networking and investment opportunities.

Through these activities, E4Impact contributes to strengthening at least 50 stakeholders in the social and solidarity economy, promoting the adoption of digital and sustainable practices, the creation of transnational partnerships, and access to funding opportunities.

The project thus promotes resilient and inclusive economic development, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 8, 9, 10, and 12).