Women Activities & Social Service Association (WASSA) established in 2002 in Afghanistan, as a non-governmental organization, committed to seeking ways for women empowerment in Afghanistan. WASSA aims to promote women's equal participation in the socio-economic sectors of the country. WASSA works directly with communities in order to bring change in the social attitude of the community regarding women.

An envision “Equal participation of women & men in all sectors of the country.

Position Overview:

The Entrepreneurship Development Officer will play a vital role in the implementation of the SME Development Project in Herat, Farah, Ghor, and Badghis provinces. The project aims to support the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in these regions through training, capacity-building initiatives, and access to necessary resources. The Entrepreneurship Development Officer will be responsible for identifying and supporting entrepreneurs, providing them with training and mentorship, and facilitating their access to resources and tools required for establishing and growing their businesses. The role requires strong entrepreneurial skills, knowledge of business development, and the ability to work closely with entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.

Responsibilities:

1. Identify and select potential entrepreneurs for the SME Development Project through a comprehensive beneficiary selection process.
2. Coordinate with the beneficiary selection committee to ensure the selection of the most vulnerable and eligible individuals as project beneficiaries.
3. Conduct location mapping and skills assessments in selected locations to identify potential entrepreneurs and their business ideas.
4. Provide business development training and mentorship to selected entrepreneurs, covering topics such as business planning, financial management, marketing, and operations.
5. Assist entrepreneurs in developing their business proposals, ensuring they meet the project's requirements and objectives.
6. Facilitate access to necessary resources, tools, equipment, and supplies for the establishment and operation of businesses.
7. Support entrepreneurs in accessing credit facilities and financial services to meet their business needs.
8. Monitor and evaluate the progress of entrepreneurs, providing guidance and support as needed to overcome challenges and ensure business sustainability.
9. Foster an environment of collaboration and knowledge sharing among entrepreneurs, facilitating networking opportunities and peer learning.
10. Promote inclusivity and ensure the participation of individuals from vulnerable backgrounds, including people with disabilities and those from big-sized households, in the entrepreneurship development component.
11. Conduct regular follow-ups with entrepreneurs to assess the impact of the project on their businesses and livelihoods.
12. Collaborate with the project team and partners to ensure the effective implementation of the entrepreneurship development component.
13. Prepare regular progress reports, including narrative reports and statistical analysis, to communicate the achievements, challenges, and impact of the entrepreneurship development activities.
14. Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in entrepreneurship development, incorporating them into the project's activities and approaches.
15. Collaborate with local community Shuras and Business Support Centers to strengthen the entrepreneurship ecosystem and facilitate the growth of local businesses.
16. Ensure compliance with project requirements, guidelines, and reporting deadlines.
17. Participate in project meetings, workshops, and trainings as required.
18. Contribute to the overall project planning, implementation, and coordination as needed.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, Economics, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Proven experience in entrepreneurship development, business planning, and mentorship, preferably in the context of SME development projects.
• Strong understanding of market demand and supply dynamics, particularly in the targeted provinces.
• Knowledge of business development principles, including business planning, financial management, marketing, and operations.
• Experience in conducting skills assessments and providing training and mentorship to entrepreneurs.
• Familiarity with the challenges and opportunities faced by entrepreneurs, particularly in underserved regions.
• Ability to identify and select potential entrepreneurs based on eligibility criteria and project objectives.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting software.
• Fluency in English and local languages is required.
• Ability to travel to project locations as needed.

• Interested qualified candidates should submit their completed WASSA Standard Job application form (https://wassa.org.af) along with an updated CV and 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-134  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.