Entrepreneurship
Our Micro Enterprise Program goes beyond microfinance—it’s a pathway to sustainable poverty eradication and economic empowerment in Tharaka Nithi County. By integrating capacity building, funding client-centered enterprises, and offering tailored financial support, we equip entrepreneurs with the skills, resources, and mentorship needed to break the cycle of poverty.
Micro Enterprise
In the area we serve, 36.1% live below the poverty line of $3.65/day USD.
7,672 Entrepreneurs and
$2.2 Million USD loaned
Through our 641 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) funded to date, each comprising 12–15 members, we’ve empowered over 7,672 entrepreneurs. These efforts have driven innovative projects such as strawberry value addition, beekeeping, and youth-focused initiatives. Our program has disbursed over $2.2 million, fueling enterprise growth and fostering impactful change.
Our rigorous training and screening process ensures beneficiaries seize opportunities while promoting sustainable, community-led development. The results? Thriving businesses strengthened families and resilient communities.
Join us in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future—one entrepreneur at a time!
Street Business School
2,791 Entrepreneurs empowered
Street Business School (SBS) is an education-only program that provides practical hands-on training and support. It is designed to ignite entrepreneurial potential in an individual. SBS is a partnership between HopeCore and the Uganda-based Street Business School.
HopeCore staff traveled to Uganda in 2019 to be trained as SBS Coaches. In 2023, the graduation of 480 SBS students showed a remarkable 108% increase in income, with 54% of them initiating businesses. Find out more in our success stories and blogs!
HopeCore exceeded its 2021-2024 goal of training 900 entrepreneurs set for 2021-2024, instead training 4,060 entrepreneurs! Currently, we have trained 2,511 entrepreneurs in 2025.
Capacity Building
39,395 Families empowered
The first non-financial community development project, the Global Families Welfare Group comprises 133 members working on agricultural projects. While HopeCore is not providing loans to these individuals, the team aims to support the group with mentorship and technical support. This group is increasing their income and empowerment through strawberry value addition projects: selling fresh berries, the juice, and the strawberry flakes!
Community Projects
Motorbike Project (August 2020 – May 2022)
In August 2020, the program funded a motorcycle project that benefited 10 youth. By May 2022, all beneficiaries had successfully repaid their loans and transitioned to the second cycle of the program. They have since diversified their investments into various enterprises of their choice.
Nguruki Youth Gas Station Project (October 2023 – Present)
This initiative, funded in October 2023, supported 20 youths by establishing a gas station. The project aims to create employment opportunities and enhance income generation for the beneficiaries, enabling them to achieve financial independence.
Dairy Cow Project (May 2024 – Present)
In May 2024, the program funded a dairy project that provided 10 youths with three dairy cows. The project is managed collectively at the chairman’s homestead, fostering shared responsibility and enhancing economic sustainability. Notably, the youth engaged in these projects operate as freelancers, granting them the flexibility to explore diverse economic opportunities.