The Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) and the Mastercard Foundation have officially commenced the sensitization campaign for their transformative Business in a Box (BizBox) Programme.
This initiative, building on the success of the Young Africa Works Project, aims to empower an additional 250,000 young people in Ghana over the next four years.
The Young Africa Works Project, executed from 2020 to 2022, exceeded its goal by supporting approximately 94,000 young individuals in establishing businesses or securing fulfilling jobs.
Now, the BizBox Programme seeks to continue this success by providing support and opportunities to 250,000 young Ghanaians.
Gifty Animwaa Owusu, a beneficiary of the GEA/Mastercard Young Africa Works Project Programme, shared her inspiring transformation from a struggling individual to a successful business owner and mentor.
She emphasized the critical role of the program in providing hope and support during challenging times.
“The BizBox Programme aims to enable and empower disadvantaged young people across Ghana, especially young women with first-time business startups, to acquire skills and access to startup kits, markets, finance, and technology to start, build, and grow their businesses,” stated Rica Rwigamba, Country Director, Ghana, Mastercard Foundation.
With an investment of GHS 660 million (approximately $55 million), BizBox demonstrates GEA and the Mastercard Foundation's commitment to youth development.
The program, running until April 2027, will offer comprehensive training in life skills, technical expertise, entrepreneurship, and business development.
Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, CEO of the Ghana Enterprises Agency, expressed optimism about BizBox, calling it a “beacon of hope” that aligns with the Government of Ghana's vision to engage the youth in the nation's development.
The program focuses on empowering young Ghanaians facing limited access to traditional higher education, supporting the government's goal to generate one million jobs for the youth by 2025.
The BizBox Programme, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and diversity, targets over 70 percent of young women and 10 percent of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Its five components include Youth Skills Development, Access to Market, Access to Start-up Kits, Youth Social Networks, Institutional Strengthening, Policy, and Regulatory Support.
This initiative aims to foster holistic development and resilience among young entrepreneurs, contributing to the nation's economic growth and prosperity.