Job Detail

About Women’s Activities and Social Services Association (WASSA)

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Entrepreneurship Focal Point will play a crucial role in the implementation of the SME Development Project in Herat, Farah, Ghor, and Badghis provinces. The project aims to foster entrepreneurship and support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in these regions. The Entrepreneurship Focal Point will be responsible for coordinating the implementation of entrepreneurship development activities, including supporting medium and small enterprises, selecting beneficiaries, conducting skills assessments, providing training and mentorship, and facilitating the allocation of resources. The role requires strong organizational and coordination skills, knowledge of entrepreneurship principles, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

1. Coordinate and oversee the implementation of entrepreneurship development activities within the SME Development Project.
2. Conduct market assessments to identify potential opportunities and gaps in the targeted provinces, ensuring a balance between market demand and supply.
3. Collaborate with partner organizations, community Shuras, and Business Support Centers (BSC) to identify and select potential beneficiaries for the project.
4. Establish a beneficiary selection committee consisting of representatives from UNHCR, WASSA, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a fair and transparent selection process.
5. Conduct location mapping and skills assessments in selected areas to identify individuals with entrepreneurial potential and suitable business ideas.
6. Raise public awareness about the project in selected locations to ensure widespread knowledge and participation.
7. Facilitate the registration of eligible individuals through the KOBO system and collect necessary data for beneficiary selection.
8. Support the development of business proposals by eligible candidates, ensuring alignment with project objectives and requirements.
9. Collaborate with UNHCR and partners to shortlist candidates based on the evaluation of proposals and conduct face-to-face interviews using scoring cards.
10. Finalize the selection process and collect required documents, such as identification cards (Tazkira) and guarantee letters from beneficiaries and community Shuras.
11. Facilitate the signing of agreements with selected beneficiaries, outlining their roles, responsibilities, and obligations.
12. Plan and coordinate the distribution of cash and resources to beneficiaries according to the project's guidelines and procedures.
13. Provide comprehensive business development training and mentorship to selected entrepreneurs, covering topics such as business planning, financial management, marketing, and operations.
14. Facilitate access to necessary resources, tools, equipment, and supplies for the establishment and operation of medium and small enterprises.
15. Monitor and evaluate the progress of entrepreneurs, providing guidance and support to overcome challenges and ensure the sustainability of their businesses.
16. Foster an environment of collaboration and knowledge sharing among entrepreneurs, facilitating networking opportunities and peer learning.
17. Ensure the inclusion of individuals from vulnerable backgrounds, such as people with disabilities and those from big-sized households, in the entrepreneurship development activities.
18. Prepare regular progress reports, including narrative reports and statistical analysis, to communicate the achievements, challenges, and impact of the entrepreneurship development activities.
19. Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in entrepreneurship development, incorporating them into the project's activities and approaches.
20. Collaborate with the project team and partners to ensure the effective implementation of the entrepreneurship development component.
21. Ensure compliance with project requirements, guidelines, and reporting deadlines.
22. Participate in project meetings, workshops, and trainings as required.
23. Contribute to the overall project planning, implementation, and coordination as needed.

Skills Required

• Communication Skills
• Management
• Fluency in English, Pashto/Dari

Submission Guideline:

• Interested qualified candidates should submit their completed WASSA Standard Job application form (ACBAR: Application Form) along with an updated CV full CV with a cover letter explaining their motivation in applying for the job and highlighting their relevant skills and experience.
• To apply online please send your CV along with a cover letter mentioning the vacancy number W-HRT-127  in the subject line before the VA closing date to email hr@wassa.org.af
• Academic certificates or references do not need to be submitted at this time. These will be requested if called for an interview.
• Only short-listed candidates will be invited for written tests and interviews upon project approval.

Submission Email:

hr@wassa.org.af