The German Development Service GIZ-powered Pitching For Resilience (P4Res) programme has for the last few days been in Okahao for the second edition to be run in Namibia’s Omusati Region.
Local entrepreneurs have been taken through a capacity building workshop to sharpen their presentation skills in order for them to pitch for a grant that would help their businesses get through the difficult period caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Today throughout the day the adjudication panel of two public officials, two bankers and an entrepreneur are evaluating pitches.
By the end of today the adjudication panel will allocate grants to help entrepreneurs continue operating during these trying and uncertain times.
“Although some might not be allocated grants, all P4Res programme participants receive an SME toolkit,” said Mr. Danny Meyer, the programme’s coordinator.
“Additionally, a significant contribution has been allocated to go towards either registering their businesses with the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA);
“Or if the business is already registered but currently in compliance default, the allocated funds that all P4Res participants receive will go towards reducing the debt.”
Meanwhile successful pitchers will receive a grant ranging between N$6,000 and N$60,000. The grants would either settle the business arrears for rent, or electricity, or pay for workers salaries for the next three to four months.
Those who want to pay off some business equipment which is on hire purchase may also be considered.
In the photo: The panel of adjudicators at P4Res in Okahao.
