Impact Hub Managua is developing a business recovery and resiliency project to support 50 Nicaraguan SMEs (1 to 3 entrepreneurs per SME for a total of 150 entrepreneurs) affected by the Coronavirus crisis. The expected result is to have 50 SMEs operating and growing with a new business model adapted to the new context and using digital technology strategies. The project is divided into three phases: The first phase is the selection and evaluation of SMEs/entrepreneurs. In this phase, a diagnostic of all applicants will be carried out to understand how the current impact of the COVID-19 crisis has affected their businesses. The second phase is business transformation training. 50 SMEs will receive training on how to transform their business model and adapt it to the current context. SMEs will be receiving the training through an e-learning platform, and also will receive the support from international and national mentors and facilitators. In addition to the technical business training, SMEs will be given guidelines to prepare a COVID-19 "action at home" project to create a positive impact in their communities. The third phase is the digital transformation of the SMEs. In this phase, SMEs will receive training on digital skills and will receive specialized coaching from digital transformation specialists from the Impact Hub Network. .

Resilience - we're improving the broader infrastructure for responding to pandemic outbreaks.,Recovery - we're positioned to support in the recovery of those directly affected.,Response - we're responding directly to issues caused or exacerbated by the COVID-19 outbreak.

I have a market ready product/service. I have sold to customers.

Helping businesses and their employees to improve their situation requires training, tools, mentorship, and access to a community of support. In-person classes lack the extent of knowledge available online. Online lacks engagement with personalised assistance. This innovation has more significant potential for impact for a few key reasons.1.Our solution combines the ability to access a full set of tools, training and resources available online. Our team has experience developing programmes for organisations such as IDB, Swiss Cooperation, Oxfam, Ashoka and World Vision.2.The online/offline approach makes the ability to reach a significant number of entrepreneurs possible, and being online they can access it when they need it, where they need it3.The Multi-layered support of online communities, group sessions, and 1-on-1 support ensure that business owners can receive more in-depth support when required. Also, SMEs will be connected to their local ecosystem and have the opportunity to learn best practices and learned lessons from other resilient companies.4.Connected to a global community: By partnering with the Impact Hub Global community, the online program will be updated monthly with new tools, training, and best practices. 5.SMEs digital transformation through specialised coaching and access to digital products and an e-commerce platform.6.Access to finance for impact. Enabling growth for micro-enterprises in Nicaragua7.Action at home projects

Impact Hub 's network operates in more than 110 cities in 55 countries. Our Impact Hub is based in Managua, Nicaragua. However, we can run this programme virtually regionally

Yes