FREE Entrepreneur Support & Grants: United People Global (UPG) Biashara Class of 2026

Digital technologies can significantly enhance an applicant's success at every stage of the UPG Biashara program, from application to project implementation and securing grants: 1. **Application Phase:** * **Online Portfolio/Digital Presence:** Applicants should ensure their LinkedIn profile or any personal website/blog effectively showcases their entrepreneurial passion, past projects, or relevant skills. A well-curated digital footprint can implicitly strengthen an application. * **Research Tools:** Utilize advanced search engines, AI assistants (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard), and industry-specific online databases to research UPG's past projects, successful alumni, and global trends relevant to their business idea. This helps tailor the application to UPG's specific mission. * **Digital Storytelling Tools:** If allowed, a short video pitch (using tools like Loom, Vimeo, or YouTube) could make a memorable impact, clearly articulating their vision, passion, and potential impact more vividly than text alone. 2. **Learning Journey (Program Participation):** * **Learning Management Systems (LMS) Proficiency:** Familiarity with virtual collaboration platforms (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet) and online learning environments (e.g., Moodle, Canvas, or UPG's custom platform) is essential for engaging with 70+ hours of training and 50 interactive sessions. * **Collaboration & Project Management Software:** Tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack, Trello, or Asana will be invaluable for group projects, communicating with instructors/mentors, and organizing business tasks during the intensive 6-week training. * **Business Planning Software:** Cloud-based business planning software (e.g., LivePlan, Bizplan) or advanced spreadsheet tools (Google Sheets, Excel) can help participants develop robust business plans, financial models, and market analyses efficiently. 3. **Action Journey (Implementation & Grant Pursuit):** * **Digital Marketing Tools:** Leveraging social media management tools (Buffer, Hootsuite), email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, ConvertKit), and website builders (WordPress, Shopify, Wix) will be critical for implementing marketing strategies, building an online presence, and reaching customers. * **Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software:** Tools like HubSpot (free tier), Zoho CRM, or Salesforce can help manage customer interactions, track leads, and build strong customer relations, as emphasized in the program. * **Financial Management Software:** Cloud-based accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks Online, Wave Accounting) is vital for tracking expenses, managing revenue, and preparing financial reports, which will be essential for grant reporting and demonstrating business sustainability. * **Impact Measurement Tools:** Developing custom dashboards (using tools like Google Data Studio, Power BI) or utilizing specialized impact tracking software to quantify the social and environmental impact of their ventures, crucial for grant applications and reporting. * **Pitch Deck Software:** Utilizing design tools like Canva, PowerPoint, or Google Slides to create compelling and visually appealing pitch decks for potential grant presentations. * **Secure Cloud Storage:** Employing services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive to securely store all business documents, reports, and evidence of progress for easy access and sharing with mentors or grant evaluators. By proactively adopting and integrating these digital technologies, applicants can not only streamline their participation in the UPG Biashara program but also build more robust, scalable, and data-driven businesses, significantly increasing their chances of securing grant funding and achieving long-term success.