IRC Microfranchising
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Presentation Transcript
IRC Microfranchising Paolo Cernuschi, Zimbabwe Programs Coordinator SMEAZ Workshop, 29 January 2013
New Market Entrant Employment Mismatch • High unemployment minimal job opportunities • Past initiatives provide opportunities not matched to market needs • We would need to create over 100 million jobs within the next 20 years to have enough jobs for the growing number of young people (UNESA, 2010).
What is a Microfranchise Modeled after traditional franchises in the US and Europe Small businesses replicated from bigger existing business: proven business concepts established brand defined operations defined cost structure Microfranchises have minimal startup costs and are easy to maintain
Definition of a Microfranchise Systematize Replicate
What is the difference between Microfranchise & Microfinance ? VS.
Why Microfranchise? • The franchisor has done the work • The franchisee needs to simply follow existing guidelines • Pairs a successful entrepreneur with those who lack the skills and capital to develop and start their own business • Benefiting the individual with the new business • Benefiting the existing business by expanding their customer reach and market share
Potential Role of NGO in Microfranchise General Create a microfranchise from scratch Invest in existing micro-enterprise and support its replication as a franchise IRC Facilitators of franchise development
IRCs’ Preparations for Microfranchise Development • New Market Entrant Assessment • Specific needs • Interests • Potential local partners • Franchise Assessment • Scalability • Profitability • Management Team
Sierra Leone- Microfranchising Year 1 • Pilot project took place 2009- 2010 • 100 youth matched with 7 franchise businesses • Youth receive training, mentoring and startup • Results (After 7 months): 100% still engaged, 83% making profit Year 2 • More detailed market assessment conducted, 1 franchise business chosen • 154 youth receive package of support and startup Splash microfranchises
Kenya – Girls Empowered by Microfranchise • Year 1 • Market & Girls assessment conducted • 4 Business identified • Local consulting firm and youth organizations identified • Curricula developed • 250 girls trained and microfranchise started • Year 2 • Continue to scale up • Monitor progress • By end of Year 2 reach 2400 Lead Girls & Buddies