Transforming MSME Support in Uganda: A New Standard for Business Development Services All Case Studies Case Study BDS Strengthening Transforming MSME Support in Uganda: A New Standard for Business Development Services Background In 2019, the African Management Institute (AMI), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and the Mastercard Foundation launched an initiative to set national standards for Business Development Services (BDS) in Uganda, ensuring quality support for MSMEs and promoting sustainable growth. Challenge Uganda's BDS landscape is fragmented, mainly benefiting urban areas, with limited support for rural businesses. MSMEs are reluctant to invest in BDS due to inconsistent quality, which hinders growth. The lack of unified standards can misallocate development funding, reducing resource effectiveness. Solution AMI and PSFU launched the AMI GROW program to implement BDS standards through practical training and tools. A nationwide roadshow equipped providers with diagnostic resources via an online academy, enabling them to effectively meet MSME needs. Results The program improved the BDS sector, with 94% of providers seeing better service quality in three months. It supported over 46,000 MSMEs, empowered women like Immy Nakyeyune of Mkazipreneur, and set a strong foundation for MSME support in Uganda, serving as a model for Africa. Goal setting was something we hadn’t focused on before. Now, whenever a woman comes to us, we start with setting clear, actionable goals. Immy Nakyeyune Founder Mkazipreneur The story behind the journey In 2019, the African Management Institute (AMI) and the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) set out to transform how Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Uganda access support. Uganda’s entrepreneurs, spread across diverse regions, often lacked consistent, quality guidance to grow their businesses. Recognizing this gap, AMI, PSFU, and the Mastercard Foundation embarked on an ambitious initiative to establish national standards for Business Development Services (BDS). This effort aimed to create a more cohesive support system for Uganda’s MSMEs, helping them achieve sustainable growth. The BDS landscape in Uganda was fragmented and lacked a clear quality benchmark. Many small BDS providers were concentrated in urban centers, while rural areas struggled with limited access. MSMEs were often reluctant to pay for services, citing disappointing past experiences with inconsistent support. This dynamic resulted in an ecosystem where billions in development funding were being spent on ineffective MSME training programs. It was clear that a new approach was needed to raise the standard of support for MSMEs, helping them to overcome barriers to growth and thrive. AMI’s extensive experience in developing scalable and evidence-based training solutions provided a strong foundation for the project. Together with PSFU, they initiated the AMI GROW program, a comprehensive, practical approach to setting national standards for BDS providers. Instead of simply drafting standards, AMI and PSFU designed a system that would equip BDS providers with diagnostic tools and resources they could apply immediately to their work with MSMEs. In 2022, AMI and PSFU took this initiative on the road. Through a cross-country roadshow, they reached BDS providers in Kampala, Gulu, Mbale, and other regions, delivering training to 200 providers and introducing them to AMI’s digital academy. The program offered practical tools tailored to diagnosing and addressing MSME needs and included licenses for providers to share the resources with the MSMEs they supported. The response from BDS providers was overwhelmingly positive. For many, this training was their first opportunity to receive structured support and connect with peers facing similar challenges. Over 1,000 BDS providers applied, eager to participate in the pilot training, and 94% of those trained reported improvements in service delivery and increased confidence in running their businesses. One participant, Immy Nakyeyune, the founder of Mkazipreneur, shared how the program transformed her approach. Before the training, her team offered one-off support to women entrepreneurs, lacking a continuous support model. Now, with tools like the goal-setting toolkit, Immy’s organization could guide women entrepreneurs through a structured growth path. "Goal setting was something we hadn’t focused on before,” she said. “Now, whenever a woman comes to us, we start with setting clear, actionable goals.” Lessons Learned and Key Takeaways The project unearthed essential lessons for implementing BDS standards effectively: Build Local Ownership : By involving a wide array of local stakeholders from the start, AMI and PSFU fostered a sense of ownership, increasing buy-in and ensuring the standards addressed Uganda’s unique needs. Standards Alone Aren’t Enough : Effective standards require practical tools. AMI’s diagnostic tools allowed BDS providers to make immediate improvements to their MSME support services, transforming abstract standards into actionable practices. Engage Rural Providers : In Uganda, as in much of Africa, quality BDS access is often limited outside of urban areas. AMI’s outreach beyond Kampala ensured that rural and peri-urban providers could access quality training and join a supportive network. Encourage Community Building : BDS providers, eager to improve their skills, benefited from the chance to engage with peers. This sense of community and shared purpose was essential for building long-term commitment to the standards. Create Incentive Models for Sustainability : AMI is currently exploring sustainable incentive models, such as compliance checks and the potential for a digital community, to encourage ongoing standards adoption among BDS providers. With the standards under public review and anticipated for publication in 2024, AMI and PSFU are now focused on supporting the broader adoption of the standards. There is ongoing work to design a scalable compliance model that incentivizes providers to adhere to the standards over time, ensuring that MSMEs across Uganda benefit from high-quality support. This initiative has already shown that standards, when implemented with the right tools and local involvement, can significantly impact MSME growth and resilience. AMI is now looking at ways to apply these learnings in other African countries, with Uganda’s success as a model for improving BDS ecosystems across the continent. To read the full case study, click bellow. AMI-Case-Study-Unlocking-Africas-Entrepreneurial-Ecosystem-2024 .pdf Download PDF • 5.70MB

Kenyan Youth Entrepreneurs Creating Jobs for Youth All Stories Munune Githiri & Vanessa Mwaniki Position: Co-Founders Company: Orac Branding Programme: Grow Your Business Country: Kenya Kenya’s Orac Branding enrolled in AMI’s flagship Grow Your Business programme in 2021.Their two youth founders increased revenue by 70% in 2022, created 10 jobs and forged partnerships with other entrepreneurs they met on our programme. Orac Branding, a marketing and branding agency based in Nairobi, was co-founded by young Kenyan entrepreneurs Munune Githiri and Vanessa Mwaniki. Munene noted that he started his business because he is passionate about the sector, and noted that ‘back in the day marketing and branding was for the big boys with the big budgets. I saw an opportunity where micro and small businesses needed to understand what marketing is. We give them knowledge at a fair price’. Munene commented: Munene said that a growth in revenue (a 69% growth from 2021-22) and an ability to hire new staff was the most significant change that resulted from the programme. He attributes the growth to developing a sales strategy for the business, implementing cost reduction strategies and re-evaluating the needs of the customers in order to better understand how they could meet that need. Orac created 4 full time and 6 part time jobs in 2022, hiring 3 Kenyan youth into their first jobs. Beyond this direct job creation, Orac uses their expertise to develop Micro SMEs with branding skills within their community – 551 to date. Munene comments that he is aware of at least 12 of these businesses that have hired 1-2 additional staff themselves. Munene said that a growth in revenue (a 69% growth from 2021-22) and an ability to hire new staff was the most significant change that resulted from the programme. He attributes the growth to developing a sales strategy for the business, implementing cost reduction strategies and re-evaluating the needs of the customers in order to better understand how they could meet that need. Orac created 4 full time and 6 part time jobs in 2022, hiring 3 Kenyan youth into their first jobs.Beyond this direct job creation, Orac uses their expertise to develop Micro SMEs with branding skills within their community – 551 to date. Munene comments that he is aware of at least 12 of these businesses that have hired 1-2 additional staff themselves. To learn more about the African Management Institute and our Grow Your Business Programme, visit www.africanmanagers.org/gyb

Back to News News Uganda AMI partners with Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) to develop standards for strengthening SME support ecosystem 18 Nov 2022 Kampala, Uganda – The African Management Institute (AMI), a leader in business growth and training across Africa, has launched a partnership with the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) to develop national Standards to strengthen Uganda’s small business support ecosystem. AMI has been working with local ecosystem experts to develop a series of Business Development Support (BDS) Standards aimed at improving the quality of support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Uganda. AMI will also train 200 Ugandan business development service providers in the implementation of the Standards in 2023.This effort, which will complement the National BDS Framework developed by Enterprise Uganda and is funded by the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works project, will help improve support for MSMEs, which are critical for economic growth and job creation. “Provision of quality BDS services is crucial to ensure that Uganda’s entrepreneurs survive and thrive. Currently, the Ugandan BDS landscape is fragmented and uncoordinated, with many BDS providers lacking the skills or finances to adequately support entrepreneurs,” said Mr. Francis Kisirinya PSFU’s Chief Membership Officer. “AMI’s track record in delivering business and management training across the continent is unparalleled and this 18-month project aims to significantly impact the success of entrepreneurs by laying the groundwork for ecosystem-level change.” AMI and PSFU held BDS Standard Technical Working Group meetings at Mestil Hotel & Residences in June and November. The group consists of key representatives from 15 government, private and public sector organisations. The Technical Working Group’s mandate is to provide strategic advice to AMI’s standards drafting team before submission to the Uganda National Bureau of Standards for gazetting. Rebecca Harrison, CEO and co-founder of AMI says the organisation will leverage its continental expertise in delivering evidence-based business growth programmes to contribute to improving BDS delivery in Uganda. “AMI's Africa-built and Africa-focused business growth model, as well as our experience in delivering training to over 42,000 individuals in 39 countries across the continent, positions AMI as an ideal partner for this work,” said Harrison who joined the Technical Working Group’s meetings in person. “Moreover, AMI’s local presence and collaborative approach will enable us to incorporate the local context when implementing the work.” In addition to supporting the Technical Working Group’s efforts to improve the BDS Standards, AMI will train 200 BDS providers to address supply challenges, particularly for specialized areas, sectors, and industries. The Technical Working Group working on the BDS Standards includes representatives of key Ministries including Ministry of Trade and Cooperatives, Ministry of Finance Planning & Economic Development, MDA, BDS providers and consumers as well as development partners, including Mastercard Foundation. Additional stakeholder engagement is being undertaken with the aim to leverage the standards as an inclusive, ecosystem-building tool.Enterprise Uganda and the Makerere University Business School (MUBS) were elected as the Chair and Vice Chair of the Technical Working Group, respectively. For information about AMI please contact: info@africanmanagers.com For information about PSFU, contact: Nkoba Lorraine on email: lnkoba@psfuganda.org.ug

Poultry business growth has ripple effects for Nigerian smallholder farmers All Stories Adebayo Awoyele Position: Owner Company: Ensapuh Veterinary Services Programme: Grow Your Business Country: Nigeria Adebayo Awoyele (Nigeria), the owner of Ensapuh Veterinary Services, enrolled for Grow Your Business in 2021. Ensapuh saw revenue growth from $106k to $178k (67%) from 2021 – 2022, raised investment in 2022 and created 5 full time jobs and 7 part time jobs. Ensapuh offers consultancy services to farmers and works with smallholder farmers to produce live chickens. Adebayo noted that modelling their finances and goals in the programme helped them secure funding. The 12 new staff include farm managers, a farm service office, 1 vet and part-time employees supporting the movement of birds. Ensapuh also creates livelihoods for smallholder farmers through its out grower programming, adding 5 smallholder farmers to their operations in 2022. 60% of their smallholder farmers are women. Adebayo notes that food security is a pertinent area of impact for the business, as live birds are constantly in demand by processors in their area. Critically, when there are not enough live chickens there is redundancy in the processing plants. For every 2000 live birds processed, 20 staff are involved. Adebayo notes he has seen people coming out of redundancy to obtain daily wage jobs processing chicken. In addition, he notes that his growth has had positive knock-on effects for his suppliers.

All Programmes Open Enrolment Open Enrolment Programme de Planification Stratégique Donnez une nouvelle dimension à votre leadership avec ce programme dédié à la planification et la mise en œuvre stratégique. Boostez votre expertise stratégique en seulement deux mois. Add a Title Add a Title Catégorie Direction, Leadership et Management Conçu pour Les dirigeants et cadres supérieurs FORMAT Virtuel Durée 6 – 8 semaines (2 à 3 heures / semaine) Coût 200 000 F. CFA HT / participant Date de démarrage Mars 2025 Je suis intéressé.e Boostez votre expertise stratégique Donnez une nouvelle dimension à votre leadership avec ce programme dédié à la planification et la mise en œuvre stratégique. Boostez votre expertise stratégique en seulement deux mois. Présentation du programme Résultats attendus Modules clés Breakfast Balcony Wifi TV Parking Beach front Heading 2 Heading 5 Heading 5 Heading 5 Heading 2 Heading 5 Heading 5 Heading 5 Heading 2 Heading 5 Heading 5 Heading 5 Parcours d’apprentissage Ce qui est inclus Qui peut s’inscrire ? Des parcours d’apprentissage guidés et soutenus Collaboratif Les participants évoluent en cohorte, accompagnés par les intervenants d’AMI, avec des plans d’action, de l’apprentissage entre pairs et des opportunités de réseautage. Soutien technologique continu Grâce à la plateforme web et l’application mobile d’AMI, profitez d’un accès 24/7 à des cours en ligne, vidéos, outils téléchargeables et ressources pratiques, où que vous soyez Découvrez l’approche d’apprentissage d’AMI L’Afrique au cœur de notre approche Nos programmes sont conçus pour les professionnels et entrepreneurs d’Afrique, avec du contenu disponible en 7 langues, des études de cas locales et des facilitateurs experts du marché Commencez votre parcours d'apprentissage dès aujourd'hui Apply Now

AMI's practical business growth programme is designed for businesses that are ready to grow. Its unique grow-as-you-learn approach provides practical real-time learning, using AMI's growth practices and tools, to increase revenue and build resilient teams. All Programmes Flagship Programme Grow Your Business AMI's practical business growth programme is designed for businesses that are ready to grow. Its unique grow-as-you-learn approach provides practical real-time learning, using AMI's growth practices and tools, to increase revenue and build resilient teams. Live Virtual (Online) 6 Months Request Information Designed for Small & medium-sized businesses (SMEs) owners + their teams Learning Journey Phase 1: Getting Set Up for Growth Assess current business position and define growth objectives Identify strategic priorities and key performance indicators Evaluate opportunities and risks for sustainable scaling Phase 2: Leading for Growth Phase 3: Innovation: Identifying Growth Opportunities Phase 4: Financial Analysis: Key Drivers of Business Growth Phase 5: Building the People and Processes for Success Phase 6: Plan for Growth What's Included The 6-month programme includes: Virtual programme access for 2-3 people, plus additional 6-month access to mobile app 6 learning lab workshops 24 online courses and practical business tools Peer networking Access to mobile app for business tools that support implementation Graduation event & AMI certification Custom Learning @ Scale Direct SME Enrolment: Business owners can directly enrol in AMI’s Grow Your Business programme and gain access to cutting-edge tools and training to accelerate business growth. Development & Financial Institution Partnerships: Guided & Supported Learning Journeys Explore AMI's Learning Approach Cohort-Based Groups of learners are guided by AMI’s facilitators through experiences that emphasize peer-to-peer learning, action learning projects, and networking. Tech-Enabled AMI’s web and mobile apps support learners anytime and anywhere with access to video content, downloadable tools and engagement, throughout their journey. Africa First Our approach and content is built for Africa’s ambitious professionals and teams. With content in 7 languages, African case studies, and experiences led by Africa’s finest facilitators, we put Africa first in everything we do. Goal setting was something we hadn’t focused on before. Now, whenever a woman comes to us, we start with setting clear, actionable goals. Immy Nakyeyune Founder Mkazipreneur I highly recommend this programme to other entrepreneurs. It helps you identify your strengths and the skills you need to grow your business. Knowledge is power—the more you learn, the better you can develop and scale your business. Njabulo Johnson Entrepreneur Impilo Ka Lova I improved my record-keeping and created a functional budget. I also expanded my business by adding new product lines and enhancing the look and feel of my shop. As a result, my revenue has grown by over 40%! Mejjah Gitua Business Owner Sauti Traders The lessons on innovation and understanding our customers came at the perfect time. Since last year, every strategic move we’ve made has been shaped by what I learned in the AMI programme. I’m so glad I took part in it. Safiel Msovu Chairman Agrigrow Limited in Tanzania AMI’s Grow Your Business Programme has been a game-changer. I connected with two visionary business owners, and together, we formed a powerful partnership. We’re now transforming Trans Nzoia County by providing essential training that is making a real impact. With the right tools and knowledge, the possibilities are endless. Janet Bakasa Chairperson Ushindi Poultry & Marketing Services The programme’s dynamic pod sessions gave us the opportunity to connect with like-minded business owners who share our passion for growth and innovation. These sessions were more than just learning opportunities—they sparked meaningful connections and peer-to-peer learning that continue to inspire us. Sam Owen Otieno Founder & Senior Software Engineer Anga Consulting Company Conducting a SWOT analysis helped me identify external factors affecting my business. I spotted an opportunity in the directive requiring civil servants to wear African attire on Fridays. After reviewing our sales numbers, I was thrilled to see that we didn’t just meet our 30% growth target—we exceeded it with a 44% increase in sales last month. Serah Okoti Founder Princess Fashion Empire We’ve gained valuable insights into financial management, client relationships, market competition, suppliers, and other key aspects of the branding and merchandising industry. Muthoni Gituru Business Owner Ekara Official The Grow Your Business Programme gave me invaluable insights into strategy, talent management, and budgeting. I no longer fear running my business—instead, I feel confident and focused. The knowledge I’ve gained has been essential in managing and planning for the future. Michael Ngaju Nyore Business Owner Gasp Managent Institute The programme was practical and eye-opening—it completely changed how I see my business. Through the online sessions with Marang, the facilitator, I started assigning my team different roles to keep them motivated. I also completed a course on compliance, which made complex topics much easier to understand and apply. Asive Maxama Business Owner Wakanda Restaurant I loved how the program is structured, the courses are relevant to our small businesses. Also, the interaction between learners help us learn more from others. Zingisa Biyo Business Owner Onakuviwa Investments The "Speak Up and Lead" has helped me in my networking sessions. I have used it to practice with my team which led to winning a pitching competition. It made me realise the importance of story telling for my business. The scenario planning tool has been very useful, as it prepares me for the worst-case and best-case scenarios. These tools have helped me think beyond the next three months, rather than focusing on short-term planning. Samkelwe Gqomo Business Owner Womandla Global Network Connect with AMI to learn how this programme can unlock growth & performance. Learn More Ambitious learning for an ambitious Africa Whether you’re looking for workplace learning for five to five hundred, or customized programmes that drive impact locally or across Africa, AMI’s learning solutions are tailored to meet your unique needs. Connect with our learning advisors to discover how our ambitious learning programmes can help you achieve your ambitious goals. Connect with an AMI Learning Advisor Explore related programmes enrolling now AMI offers editions of this programme for open enrollment for individuals and smaller teams, in addition to offering our programmes at scale along side impact partners and workplace learning customers. Aspire with Stanford Seed April 2025 View Open Programme Grow Your Business Pan-African April 2025 View Open Programme Overview Growing a business is just as challenging as launching one. Grow Your Business is AMI’s flagship programme designed to help ambitious SME owners and teams that are positioned to scale. With expert-led facilitation, practical business tools, and interactive peer-learning, this programme empowers business leaders to drive growth with confidence. Over six months, participants gain hands-on experience in five key areas: business planning, customer acquisition, financial management, operations, and people leadership. The learning journey blends live learning, interactive group learning labs, and online resources, making it accessible for busy entrepreneurs to learn on the go. This flexible programme ensures that business owners not only learn but apply their knowledge immediately. With a focus on measurable business results, Grow Your Business delivers the insights, skills, and network needed to unlock new growth opportunities. Key Outcomes Business Growth & Profitability Develop a clear strategy for scaling sustainably Increase revenue through improved customer engagement Optimize costs and enhance profitability Financial & Operational Excellence People & Leadership Development Focus Areas Customers & Marketing Financial Management HR & Talent Operations Personal & Business Habits for Growth Strategy & Business Planning

FIRST+ II Designed to empower Agri & Agri-Adjacent Businesses in Ghana. Gain the essential tools needed to build strong financial habits, improve cash flow management, and position your agri-business for long-term growth. Apply Today Grow Your Agribusiness with FIRST+ II Financial Inclusion Programme Start Your Journey Overview The FIRST+ II Programme is an initiative under CapitalPlus Exchange’s (CapPlus) mission to foster financial inclusion in Ghana. This programme is tailored to strengthen the financial skills of agri-businesses and MSMEs, through a blend of practical and interactive learning. African Management Institute (AMI) will train 10,000 MSMEs in Ghana - with a special emphasis on youth and women-owned businesses - through high-impact workshops, diagnostic assessments, coaching tools, and mobile-based learning content. By the end of the programme, you will have; Better financial record-keeping and management Increased resilience to economic challenges Improved attractiveness to financial institutions for funding Learning Journey 1. Applications Participants show interest for the programme by applying on the webpage 2. Qualification Review the applications & use the minimum criteria to qualify 3. Diagnostic Qualified participants receive the Diagnostic LNA tool and they complete it 4. Pathwaying The applicants are redirected to the different pathways based on their learning needs 5. Learning Applicants get access to learning platform and material to suit their business needs Why Enroll Unlock Funding Opportunities: Strengthen your financial records and demonstrate your business viability to financial institutions. Actionable, Real-Time Learning: Implement learned skills immediately and see tangible improvements in your business. Inclusive and Flexible: Learn at your pace via web, mobile, and in-person options. Content is designed to be accessible even in remote areas with low bandwidth. Youth- & Women-Centered: Tailored support ensures youth and women entrepreneurs receive the guidance they need to thrive. What You Will Learn Financial Literacy Basics: Learn to manage cash flow, understand financial statements, and adopt best practices in financial planning. Effective Business Strategy: Gain the tools to set clear business goals, create actionable strategies, and adapt to market changes. Customer & Market Development: Understand how to identify and connect with your target audience, refine product offerings, and grow your customer base. Mastering Access to Finance: Learn how to present your financials to lenders, navigate loan applications, and manage credit effectively. Building Resilience & Job Creation: Learn how to navigate economic fluctuations while maintaining a strong workforce and fostering local employment. Tailored Support through FIRST+ II Financial Inclusion Business Growth Whether you’re looking to enter new markets or scale your operations, FIRST+ II Financial Inclusion will provide the strategies and resources to help you succeed. Financial Access Learn how to secure the financing and investments needed to fuel your growth. Networking Opportunities Connect with a powerful network of peers, and agribusiness experts across Africa. Tailored Support through FIRST+ II Financial Inclusion Programme Structure & Format Business Growth Whether you’re looking to enter new markets or scale your operations, FIRST+ II Financial Inclusion will provide the strategies and resources to help you succeed. The FIRST+ II Programme blends digital and in-person learning for optimal reach and effectiveness: Diagnostic Assessment: All participants complete an initial survey to identify specific gaps in their businesses and recommended courses based on the diagnostic outcomes Customized Learning Pathway: Foundations:- Quick, online courses delivered via mobile app, or our web platform to address immediate business needs. Boost & Build:- Focused bootcamps on critical topics such as cash flow, bookkeeping, and market strategy. Grow & Thrive:- In-depth, 6 month programme for high-potential businesses, offering live workshops, online resources, and peer networking. Hands-On Tools & Workshops: Access a wide range of practical tools and checklists for immediate use in your business operations. FI Integration: CapPLus has partnered with local financial institutions, to ensure that our programme participants are well-prepared for loan applications and successful repayments. Ongoing Support & Community: Join GROWTH NETWORK - by AMI - an online community for continuous networking and mentorship opportunities post-programme. Financial Access Learn how to secure the financing and investments needed to fuel your growth. Networking Opportunities Connect with a powerful network of peers, and agribusiness experts across Africa. Start Your Learning Journey Today Apply Now The African Management Institute (AMI), CapitalPlus Exchange (CapPlus,) and the Mastercard Foundation are collaborating to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Ghana’s agriculture and related sectors strengthen their businesses, access finance, and create jobs—particularly for youth and women. In this partnership, CapPlus works with financial institutions to improve how they lend to and support MSMEs. AMI brings its proven “Tech+Touch” training approach—practical, web- and mobile-based learning combined with facilitated workshops—so entrepreneurs develop the habits, tools, and financial management skills they need to grow while, the Mastercard Foundation provides critical financial support and guidance for programs that open opportunities for young people in Africa. About the Partnership

Starting a business takes more than just a great idea—it requires the ability to turn that idea into action and make it a reality.The Start Your Business Programme guides aspiring entrepreneurs through key steps such as understanding market demand, developing prototypes, building a strong business model, and securing funding. All Programmes Flagship Programme Start Your Business Starting a business takes more than just a great idea—it requires the ability to turn that idea into action and make it a reality.The Start Your Business Programme guides aspiring entrepreneurs through key steps such as understanding market demand, developing prototypes, building a strong business model, and securing funding. Various (Live Virtual, In-Person or Hybrid) 4 - 5 Months Request Information Designed for Aspiring entrepreneurs and startups to develop, test, and launch their business. Learning Journey Phase 1: Your Business Model and Market Use the Business Model Canvas to define target markets and customer segments Conduct market research to refine your Unique Value Proposition Phase 2: Make a Plan Phase 3: Make and Manage Money Phase 4: Your Business Plan and Pitch What's Included The 4-month blended program includes: 4 Learning Lab workshops Online courses/practical tools Practical project and peer networking A final pitch (optional pitch panel & competition module) Graduation event & certification Custom Learning @ Scale AMI partners with development organizations, incubators, and micro-finance institutions to deliver the Start Your Business Programme at scale. Through strategic partnerships, AMI adapts content to fit diverse market needs, ensuring accessibility through a blended approach of live facilitation, peer collaboration, and digital learning. This scalable model enables large cohorts of aspiring entrepreneurs to gain structured, interactive, and practical business training, driving long-term business success. Guided & Supported Learning Journeys Explore AMI's Learning Approach Cohort-Based Groups of learners are guided by AMI’s facilitators through experiences that emphasize peer-to-peer learning, action learning projects, and networking. Tech-Enabled AMI’s web and mobile apps support learners anytime and anywhere with access to video content, downloadable tools and engagement, throughout their journey. Africa First Our approach and content is built for Africa’s ambitious professionals and teams. With content in 7 languages, African case studies, and experiences led by Africa’s finest facilitators, we put Africa first in everything we do. Goal setting was something we hadn’t focused on before. Now, whenever a woman comes to us, we start with setting clear, actionable goals. Immy Nakyeyune Founder Mkazipreneur I highly recommend this programme to other entrepreneurs. It helps you identify your strengths and the skills you need to grow your business. Knowledge is power—the more you learn, the better you can develop and scale your business. Njabulo Johnson Entrepreneur Impilo Ka Lova Conducting a SWOT analysis helped me identify external factors affecting my business. I spotted an opportunity in the directive requiring civil servants to wear African attire on Fridays. After reviewing our sales numbers, I was thrilled to see that we didn’t just meet our 30% growth target—we exceeded it with a 44% increase in sales last month. Serah Okoti Founder Princess Fashion Empire We’ve gained valuable insights into financial management, client relationships, market competition, suppliers, and other key aspects of the branding and merchandising industry. Muthoni Gituru Business Owner Ekara Official Connect with AMI to learn how this programme can unlock growth & performance. Learn More Ambitious learning for an ambitious Africa Whether you’re looking for workplace learning for five to five hundred, or customized programmes that drive impact locally or across Africa, AMI’s learning solutions are tailored to meet your unique needs. Connect with our learning advisors to discover how our ambitious learning programmes can help you achieve your ambitious goals. Connect with an AMI Learning Advisor Explore related programmes enrolling now AMI offers editions of this programme for open enrollment for individuals and smaller teams, in addition to offering our programmes at scale along side impact partners and workplace learning customers. Overview Success in entrepreneurship starts with the right foundation. The Start Your Business Programme provides a structured approach to launching a business by guiding participants through essential steps, from idea validation to financial planning. Through practical tools like the Business Model Canvas, participants will identify key target markets, define their Unique Value Proposition, and map out the resources and partnerships needed for long-term success. Participants will also develop an operational roadmap outlining key milestones for their first year, ensuring a strong foundation for business growth. This hands-on, action-driven programme equips entrepreneurs with the strategies and skills necessary to transform ideas into thriving businesses. Key Outcomes Business Resilience & Growth Strengthen the fundamentals for business survival and expansion Improve revenue generation and create job opportunities Strategic Business Planning Financial Readiness & Investment Focus Areas Business Planning Basics Goal-setting & planning Influence & communication Personal Productivity

A female leader finds her voice All Stories Siphokazi Ngidi Position: Health & safety officer Company: South Africa Sugar Association Programme: Management Development Programme Country: South Africa As a health and safety officer for the South Africa Sugar Association, Siphokazi Ngidi is one of the youngest leaders on her team. She is also a woman in a male-dominated industry. When AMI partnered with the SA Sugar Association to provide a Management Development programme, Siphokazi found the blended learning platform particularly engaging. “The AMI training experience was different because it was more interactive,” she explains. “It was a lot of guidance and assistance.” As a result of the six-month programme, Siphokazi and her fellow managers all reported improved effectiveness on the job. In addition, 95% of participants said their motivation had increased and 89% saw greater productivity from their teams. Siphokazi grew in her confidence as a leader, sharing that “the programme helped me find my voice.” “The AMI programme did help me connect more with the working environment, mainly because the programme encourages you to interact.” Siphokazi also experienced another important benefit: the shared learning journey helped her bond more with her colleagues. “The AMI programme did help me connect more with the working environment, mainly because the programme encourages you to interact.”

AMI's Discover tool is a proprietary diagnostic solution that helps strengthen your team's performance to drive growth. This research-backed assessment provides insights to target Winning Behaviours and learning solutions that improve performance. What are Winning Behaviours? Based on a decade of research and experience, AMI has developed a proprietary set of core “Winning Behaviours” – skills, mindsets, and practices that that drive improved performance on the job. Target & build the “winning” muscle Like a top athlete, business professionals need to constantly focus on building strong muscles and key strengths. AMI’s Discover Pro assists HR and talent leaders to identify, target, and harness the key behaviours (“muscles”) that enhance individual and team performance . Discover “how to win” Uncover actionable insight through AMI’s Discover Pro diagnostic tool which assess the strengths and needs of a company or organization, based on individual and company wide responses. A personalised report for each client provides tailored analysis and points the direction to learning solutions that help you win.. How AMI’s Discover works Complete a simple Diagnostic Fast and focused diagnostic assessment designed to evaluate key leadership and team behaviours across your organization. Receive your customized report AMI provides a tailored report focused on diagnosing, prioritizing, and aligning your learning needs.This empowers you to drive value from training across your company and organization Explore a roadmap for performance and growth AMI learning specialists work with you to identify learning solutions that align with key behaviours, offering clear insights into your team’s current performance and areas for improvement. Ready to Get Started? Try our free tool – Discover Discover by AMI offers a quick, accessible glimpse into our full diagnostic tool, providing essential insights at NO cost or commitment. This free, streamlined version analyzes select “Winning Behaviours” that impact performance and alignment with strategic goals, delivering concise, actionable recommendations tailored to your team’s needs. Quickly gauge key behavioural strengths and growth areas, to make informed steps toward improved performance. This introductory tool serves as an effective starting point for organizations looking to align talent with core business objectives, building a foundation for long-term success and bench marking against like businesses in the region. Start with a Free diagnostic - Discover Contact our Team Request for a Demo for a personalized walk through of AMI Discover or simply connect with us to know more on how it can benefit you and your organization. About AMI AMI enables ambitious businesses across Africa to thrive, through practical tools and training. We equip entrepreneurs with tools to build their businesses, help companies train their teams, and run work readiness programmes for young people starting their careers. AMI’s programmes combine online and mobile tools with in-person workshops and on-the-job practice and support. AMI has worked with a range of businesses and organisations to support entrepreneurs and managers in building and growing their teams and companies across Africa including Uber, Nestle, Radisson Blu, Mastercard Foundation, USAID, Shell Foundation and Equity Bank. Since 2014, AMI has directly trained over 45,000 people in 39 countries across Africa. AMI has a presence in 8 countries, with offices in Kenya, Rwanda, Senegal, Nigeria, Uganda and South Africa, and staff presence in Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana and Ethiopia. Discover how to strengthen your team's performance to drive growth AMI’s proprietary diagnostic solution, Discover, provides research-backed insights that help you target the Winning Behaviours and learning solutions that improve performance and drive growth. Try Discover for Free

Scaling a chili export business, despite pandemic shocks All Stories Twahirwa Dieudonné Position: Entrepreneur Company: Gashora chilli export farm Programme: Grow Your Business Country: Rwanda If you want to hear a story out of a crisis, you have to talk to people like Dieudonné. Like many, his Gashora chilli export farm, founded in 2013, never anticipated the impact of the pandemic. He never imagined having to keep business going while the world shut down. As restrictions tightened, Twahirwa and his team had to quickly rethink their strategy. Fortunately, his good relationship with one of his financers, the Development Bank of Rwanda, connected him to AMI’s Grow Your Agribusiness Programme, which is aimed at equipping Agri-business owners like him across Africa with skills and tools to overcome shocks and setbacks resulting from economic crisis. After some time on the programme, Twahirwa started thinking more broadly. He got the skills and tools to diversify his pool of suppliers. He applied AMI’s cash flow management tool along with lessons on strategic management to rethink how he was running the business. Scaling a chilli export business, despite pandemic shocks Ultimately, he decided to reduce the size of his farm in order to reduce his expenses and began outsourcing through other local farmers. Gashora Farm has since increased the number of partner smallholder farmers far beyond Rwanda and DRC borders. He now works in partnership with smallholder farmers in Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. “As a result of this program, we have managed to increase the number of smallholder farmers that we work with to around 10,000.”

Partnering with an Impact Investor to Equip Managers Across Africa All Stories Position: Company: Acumen Programme: Country: Global impact investor Acumen saw a major bottleneck in many portfolio companies in Africa. “Talent is the biggest issue for many of our investee companies, whether they know it or not,” said Molly Alexander, head of talent development at Acumen. “The so-called soft skills required to lead teams and successfully manage change are difficult to find, and rarely addressed by traditional training options.” Without strong leadership skills among middle and senior managers, these businesses were limited in their ability to scale. AMI developed programmes focused on people management and strategic problem solving for managers and leaders at social benefit companies from across East and West Africa. Through engaging in-person workshops, hands-on practice, peer coaching, and an extensive online learning platform, the participants gained key leadership skills, and knowledge about organisational transformation and management practices. “Really from the first lab I changed my way of leading,” explains Mathewos Erusmo, chief marketing officer of EthioChicken. “I’m more focused on the listening part and talking less.” Susan Kuria, sales activation manager of Burn Manufacturing, especially enjoyed how practical and collaborative the programme was. “Everyone just gets to interact,” she says. “I love the role plays. There are so many tools attached to every course really to just assess how are you able to apply all those in real life.” Every participant reported applying what they learned directly to their work; 100% of their CEOs saw an improvement in their performance after the programme. In addition, 97% of participants said they acquired brand new management skills. “I need to enroll in something that can enrich me and make me a better person than I am right now, and AMI has been that platform for me,” says Susan. The results speak to the transformational impact of AMI’s blended learning approach. According to Molly Alexander of Acumen, “AMI’s user-centric approach to learning makes them the perfect partner to build programmes for our portfolio companies.” Acumen has since run three further management programmes with AMI. The first cohort was fully funded by Acumen; portfolio companies now pay most of the cost themselves and many send several participants.