Supporting people who create economic activity
The HC-IMPACT hub supports young people, women entrepreneurs, cooperatives and small and medium-sized enterprises in Goma and the surrounding region that want to structure, grow or finance their business.
Why this hub
In eastern DRC, many entrepreneurs have sound ideas and know their market well, but lack support to organise their business, convince financial partners or reach new customers.
The hub gives them access to our team's experience in project management, market studies and economic development, and to a network of professionals willing to share their know-how.
[TO BE COMPLETED: participation terms (free, cost-sharing, grants), cohort calendar and selection criteria]
What the hub offers
Incubation
For projects at the idea or start-up stage: clarifying the business model, testing the offer with customers, choosing a legal form and preparing the launch.
Acceleration
For businesses and cooperatives already operating: organising management, improving profitability, reaching new markets.
Mentoring and coaching
One-to-one support from experienced professionals, at a pace agreed with each entrepreneur.
Business plans
Drafting the business plan, financial projections and the documents required by financial partners.
Access to markets and finance
Simple market studies, connections with buyers, preparation of applications to financial institutions and support programmes.
Shared workspace
Workstations, internet connection and a meeting room for supported entrepreneurs. [TO BE CONFIRMED: equipment, opening hours and access conditions]
How the support works
- Step 1ApplicationYou fill in the form below.
- Step 2InterviewShortlisted applicants are invited to present their project.
- Step 3AssessmentWe review your project, its strengths and your needs with you.
- Step 4Support planA tailored programme is agreed: training, mentoring, technical support.
- Step 5Follow-up and reviewRegular check-ins measure progress; a review is carried out at the end.
Apply
The form takes about ten minutes. Answer simply: you do not need to have a business plan already.
Submitting an application does not commit either the applicant or HC-IMPACT. If you have difficulty filling in the form, call us on [TO BE COMPLETED: telephone].