Small-Business Development
General education is essential to the development of the whole person.
However, in a country, where professional jobs are all but non-existent, Abukloi also helps students develop practical, vocational skills. We thank
-
the Strome College of Business at Old Dominion University (VA) for providing teaching modules to show students how to create business plans, and
-
Quality Life Services for sending volunteers to train students on using business plans and providing micro-loans to help student start-ups
Examples of student-designed businesses that were awarded microloans in 2018:
Young Star Farmers' Association (agricultural project) - $2,000
3 Retail Trade Business Proposals - $1,000 each
Car Wash Business - $500
Handcrafts Business (female-owned) - $500
Award Criteria:
0-50 points - Potential for Success
-
Total amount needed to start and operate the business
-
Risk vs. Potential Profit
-
Preparedness and understanding of the business of team members/individuals involved in the plan
-
Amount of personal investment already committed and/or given.
0-25 points - Inclusiveness
-
Gender inclusiveness
-
Community participation
0-25 points - Positive Economic Impact on Abukloi Secondary and Rumbek
Commerce Teacher Henry Deng and Director Justin Mathok will work with these graduates, coaching them toward success. The money paid back on these interest-free microloans will be used to fund next year's businesses.