Deaf Zimbabwe Trust launches grants to empower young entrepreneurs with disabilities

THE Deaf Zimbabwe Trust (DZT), through the EMPOWER Activity, has provided small grants to support community-based social enterprises led by young people with disabilities. The initiative aims to bridge the gap in entrepreneurship opportunities for young people with disabilities, promoting economic inclusion and social impact.

By addressing the long-standing economic disparities faced by young individuals with disabilities in Zimbabwe, the grants seek to provide vital resources to persons with disabilities (PWDs), which they will use to develop their entrepreneurial skills and build sustainable businesses.

Four small grants, each valued at US$8 750, are set to benefit PWDs from Bulawayo, Harare, Gweru and Chimanimani.

These grants will be made available to community-based organisations led by young people with disabilities, enabling recipients to implement social enterprise interventions that not only generate profits but also meet the needs of their communities.

In a statement, DZT said the programme will bridge the economic gap that has long excluded young people with disabilities from entrepreneurship opportunities.

“Young people with disabilities have been marginalised and excluded from several entrepreneurship initiatives.

“This call provides an opportunity to bridge the gap and help community-based organisations led by young people with disabilities build sustainability through social enterprise interventions that make profits while servicing the needs of young people with disabilities and the community at large,” reads the statement.

The grants will prioritise initiatives that promote economic development, enhance social impact, encourage collaboration and build skills and capacity among young entrepreneurs.

Projects can include various sectors such as education, health and environmental sustainability, all of which align with the mission of improving the livelihoods of young people with disabilities.

“This programme will provide funding and resources to projects that promote economic development by encouraging the establishment and growth of enterprises that address community needs and create jobs for young PWDs.

“The programme also seeks to encourage collaboration by fostering partnerships between local organisations, businesses and government entities to maximise resources and impact.

“We also seek to build skills and capacity by providing training and support to young entrepreneurs with disabilities and community members to enhance their skills,” reads the statement.

Community-based organisations led by individuals aged 18-35 who operate in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, and Chimanimani are eligible to apply. Interested organisations must demonstrate a commitment to promoting access to employment for young people with disabilities and show a presence in their respective communities for at least 12 months.

The initiative represents a critical step toward economic inclusion for young people with disabilities in Zimbabwe.

By providing resources and support for social entrepreneurship, DZT is not just offering financial assistance; it is building a foundation for a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Community organisations are encouraged to seize this opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with disabilities.

With the support of EMPOWER, the dream of economic independence and social equality is within reach.