Skills to Scale (S2S) Program Approach
Our Approach
The S2S Program addresses these challenges through a holistic, inclusive, and systems-driven model that combines mobility support with economic empowerment.
1. Targeted Inclusion & Selection
We prioritize:
- Support thousands of beneficiaries
- Increase household incomes significantly
- Create jobs through participant-led enterprises
- Establish a revolving fund that continuously empowers new cohorts
Each participant undergoes needs assessment, idea validation, and market feasibility screening to ensure strong foundations for success.
2. Mobility-Linked Empowerment
Unlike traditional livelihood programs, S2S is integrated with Sapphire’s assistive device initiative, including the local fabrication of wheelchairs and orthotics. This ensures that beneficiaries:
- Gain mobility and independence
- Are physically able to participate in economic activities
- Experience a direct transition from support → productivity
We do not only support livelihoods we restore the ability to move, work, and earn.
3. Vocational & Enterprise Training
Participants receive market-driven training in areas of
- Tailoring and fashion design
- Agribusiness and food processing
- Digital services and creative industries
- Technical and service-based trades
This is complemented by business development training, including:
- Financial literacy and bookkeeping
- Pricing and market positioning
- Customer relations and digital marketing
- Business planning and growth strategies
4. Incubation & Market Testing
Participants move into a practical incubation phase, where they:
- Test products and services through local markets
- Participate in exhibitions and community showcases
- Refine business models based on real customer feedback
This hands-on approach significantly improves business survival and revenue growth.
5. Seed Financing
The Sapphire Fund
Through the Sapphire Fund, participants access
- Small grants
- Low-interest microloans
This hybrid financing model:
- Enables business start-up and expansion
- Encourages responsibility and ownership
- Recycles capital to support future cohorts
6. Mentorship & Market Linkages
Participants are connected to:
- Experienced business mentors
- Local cooperatives and value chains
- P• Private sector partners and buyers
Ongoing mentorship ensures:
- Business continuity
- Income growth
- Long-term sustainability
7. Graduation & Scale
The program culminates in
- A market-day showcase and pitch event
- Direct exposure to donors, investors, and customers
Post-graduation support includes:
- Quarterly follow-ups
- Business coaching
- Growth and scaling pathways