A support programme for micro-entrepreneurs with complex disabilities
- Solution
- Disability Inclusive Development Inclusive Futures programme
- Organization
- Sense International Kenya
- Country of Implementation
- Kenya
- Region
- Africa
- Subregion
- Subsaharan Africa
- Start Year
- 2021
- First published
- 03.12.2024
Solution details
“Sense International jumpstarted my career; otherwise, I’d still be begging. Now, I have a beautiful wife and son.” Dennis Omollo, Shiatsu Masseur, micro-entrepreneur
Sense International is a global charity that supports people with deaf-blindness to become equal and active members of society. In Kenya, the organization launched the Disability Inclusive Development Inclusive Futures programme in 2021 in partnership with Light for the World, Humanity and Inclusion, and United Disabled Persons of Kenya. The programme aims to develop micro-entrepreneur businesses for deaf-blind individuals and connect them with commercial enterprises for further support.
Problems Targeted
People with deaf-blindness and other complex disabilities face significant barriers to inclusion, often leading to marginalization and isolation.
Solution, Innovation and Impact
The Disability Inclusive Development Inclusive Futures programme matches existing micro-entrepreneurs who live with deaf-blindness or other complex disabilities with mentors known as Business Development Service Providers (BDSPs). These mentors support business growth and connect the micro-entrepreneurs to other enterprises. Sense International Kenya (SIK) has adapted existing training methods used by its partners to meet the complex needs of the micro-entrepreneurs. This includes language adaptation, simplified record-keeping tools, and specific training for BDS providers to understand their needs. Additionally, small grants are provided, enabling the micro-entrepreneurs to focus on business growth. To qualify for the programme, micro-entrepreneurs and their families must already be running a business. This approach leverages the strengths of micro-entrepreneurs, helping them gain confidence in managing successful businesses. BDSPs monitor their progress to ensure growth. Between 2021 and 2024, 36 micro-entrepreneurs have been supported and linked to 32 public and private institutions; and 60 per cent of the first cohort have doubled their sales. As a result of this initiative, 28 of the 36 micro-entrepreneurs have achieved a more independent and fulfilling life, no longer relying on family members and others for support.
Funding, Outlook and Transferability
Sense International Kenya and Sense International UK have allocated a budget of $160,000 for the financial year 2024–2025. Over 80 per cent of supported businesses have become self-sustaining. As international funding concludes in June 2025, SIK is training micro-entrepreneurs to access local government funding and will continue collaborating with public and private institutions on implementing disability inclusion action plans. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)
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