Short Training Course
Cultivating and Engaging a Global Entrepreneurial Mindset as a
Driver for Economic Growth and Development Program
Entrepreneurship Innovation Center
Bowie State UNIVERSITY, Maryland - USA
October 14 - 18, 2024
Course Content & Participant List
Training our entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP) is a capacity building program for African entrepreneurs in sub- Saharan Africa region, who operate in environments characterized by unorganized markets, almost non-existent sources of financing and very insufficient government support systems. According to official statistics from the Senegalese ministry responsible for SMEs, more than 65% of businesses disappear before their first anniversary date. Micro, Small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), represent 98% of businesses in Senegal, making them the backbone of the Senegalese economy. However, they only benefit from 9% of credits granted to businesses.
The development objective of the EDP program is to strengthen the resilience capacities of 500 African entrepreneurs by 2030. To achieve this objective, two components will be implemented: Training (Component 1) and Business Networking (Component 2).
The Training Component is implemented through the conclusion of agreements with renowned American universities. In this context, CTS MANAGEMENT, the initiator of the program, has entered into a three-year partnership agreement with Bowie State University, a public university of the State of Maryland, member of the prestigious American network called Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The first session will take place from October 14 to 18, 2024 in person at the premises of Bowie State University. The theme will focus on how to develop the Entrepreneurial Mindset of the entrepreneurs attending the training course. The last day of the session will see the participation of American entrepreneurs who will graciously share their experiences and discuss business opportunities with the participants. It should be noted that the university has made practical arrangements for English-French and English-Wolof translation for participants who may need it, many of them are illiterate in Senegal.
This partnership would not have been possible without the leadership of Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, President of Bowie State University, who authorized our delegation to be received last April at Bowie State University. Thanks to her team, the Provost, the Directors of international affairs and the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center who give to our delegation a warm welcome.
In a recent country mission conducted in September 2024, the World Bank committed to strengthening its partnership with Senegal, promising to support the priorities of the new Government. Discussions focused on ways to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM is working on this purpose.
In a strategic partnership with SEDE SENEGAL Association, led by Honorable Dieynaba Goudiaby, 1st Secretary of the High Council for Local Government, the second session aims to train 30 women entrepreneurs every year. Moreover, CTS MANAGEMENT and SEDE SENEGAL are closely working with Prince George’s County Public Schools Board of Education in a project named “Fostering Women Leadership Education” aiming at introducing entrepreneurship courses in specialized school entirely dedicated to young girls.
The communication of this training session will be provided by Voice of America, who received the delegation in his studios in Washington, DC.
watch the video:
Participants List
Entrepreneurs | Business names | Sectors | Sub Sectors | |
1 | Abdoulaye TOURE | Du Foncier Pièces Auto – DPA | Trading | Auto parts and Engine Oil |
2 | Cheikh Ahmet Tidiane DIOP | Ibaking SASU | Industry | Bakery and Pastry |
3 | Mouhameth Diatta SENE | Sene Business Luxury – SBL | Trading | Perfumes and Clothes |
4 | Babacar Pierre NIANG | SEE NV | Construction | Bâtiments |
5 | Mor KA | SIFA Group | IT | Digital platform |
6 | Abdoulahat MBAYE | Etablissements ALM | Transportation | Public transportation |
7 | Issa SAKHO | Dior Ceramica | Trading | Ceramic Tiles |
8 | Ousmane TOUNKARA | ETF Senegal | Trading | Diverse Goods |
9 | Thierno SENE | Darou Mousty Locations Sarl | Trading | Car Dealer and Renting |
10 | Mbaye DIOP | TCB BAOL | Trading | Diverse Goods |
11 | Amadou Sow NDIAYE | Institut Selly-YA | Education | Vocational Training |
12 | Mouhamadou Baba Neguet BA | Assurances La Providence | Finance | Insurance |
Training Narrative
Unlock your entrepreneurial potential with our comprehensive five-day program, designed to cultivate and enhance the entrepreneurial mindset necessary for success in today’s dynamic business world. Each day of this intensive program is meticulously crafted to focus on critical aspects of entrepreneurship, providing you with the skills, insights, and strategies to thrive in global markets.
Objective 1: Equip participants with the understanding and application of the entrepreneurial mindset, focusing on how to think and act like an entrepreneur. This includes cultivating risk assessment, innovation, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making skills. The objective is to help participants internalize a mindset that embraces calculated risks, innovative thinking, and continuous improvement in a business context.
Objective 2: Provide participants practical tools and strategies to apply directly to their businesses. This spans from effective local marketing and community engagement strategies to building trust with key stakeholders and leveraging networking for business growth. The program aims to ensure that participants leave with actionable plans and strategies that can be implemented immediately to foster business development and sustainability.
Curriculum Overview
Day 1: Begin your journey by exploring what constitutes the entrepreneurial mindset and why it is a pivotal force in global economic innovation. Learn how entrepreneurship is more than just a skill but a method that can be mastered and applied. You will identify key entrepreneurial traits through interactive activities and develop a personal action plan.
Day 2: Begin your journey by exploring what constitutes the entrepreneurial mindset and why it is a pivotal force in global economic innovation. Learn how entrepreneurship is more than just a skill but a method that can be mastered and applied. You will identify key entrepreneurial traits through interactive activities and develop a personal action plan.
Day 3: Leading Innovation. Delve into the process of introducing innovations with a focus on Design Thinking and overcoming the survival trap—balancing immediate needs with long-term vision. Participate in hands-on design thinking activities, tackle business challenges, and devise innovative solutions that are both creative and practical.
Day 4: Effective Marketing & Branding. Learn how to maximize local market potential through next-door advertising strategies, social media engagement, and community involvement. You’ll plan and execute a local marketing campaign and develop strategies to integrate your business into the community fabric through philanthropy and outreach.
Day 5: Building Trust and Networking. Our final day will focus on cultivating lasting relationships with customers, bankers, and other stakeholders. Practice real-life negotiation and pitching scenarios to build trust effectively.
The program will culminate in a networking event where you can apply your new skills and build a network of international professional contacts.
Throughout the program, you will engage in breakout sessions and practical applications that ensure learning is tailored to real-world applications. You’ll leave with knowledge and actionable strategies to implement immediately in your business ventures.
Program Overview
The program will include top-tier instructors and guest speakers with specialized expertise in entrepreneurship.
Access to course material, including pre-work, handouts, and access to digital resources.
The University will provide venue- and campus-based logistics.
Audio/Visual equipment to be provided by the University.
Catering Providing lunch and one coffee break daily