Novi

Novi will pursue its mission in two major ways: (1) By building a culture of entrepreneurship through educational events that engage entrepreneurs and inspire youth; and, (2) By providing in-depth training, modern business tools, peer networking opportunities, and financial assistance to specific entrepreneurs. Novi is currently registered as a nonprofit/NGO in both the U.S. and Benin. In order to truly inspire a spirit of entrepreneurship in Benin, Novi is also engaging in a social entrepreneurship venture of its own in order to sustain the nonprofit. Novi will assist a cooperative of artisans and tailors who will then sell fair trade goods to Novi Boutik, a partner for-profit entity. Novi Boutik will sell these products online, in the U.S. and in West Africa to generate profits that will go directly to Novi NGO. Novi will thus be sustained with funds generated by the communities in which we work, creating yet another dimension to our model for social change. Novi will provide training to any community members desiring business skills as well as in-depth assistance to specific entrepreneurs, such as the cooperative of artisans and tailors. We will evaluate our impact by the number of entrepreneurs reached, the impact of these businesses, and the net worth to the community monetarily and socially.