Empowering Lüderitz’s Coastal Entrepreneurs
Sunny Imalwa | April 3rd, 2025 | News
The NIMPA+ project is supporting aspiring entrepreneurs in small-scale fishing and tourism in Lindustries through an innovative entrepreneurship program. Designed to enhance sustainable economic opportunities in Namibia’s coastal communities, the program has received overwhelming interest, leading to the formation of two dedicated cohorts.
This program is being rolled out in partnership with Impact Tank, an organization committed to fostering high-impact social enterprises that drive economic and environmental sustainability.
Cohort 1: Strengthening Small-Scale Fishing Enterprises
The first cohort, consisting of small-scale fishing entrepreneurs, just completed the Ideation and Business Marathon phases and has now progressed to the Accelerator phase. This phase equips participants with essential business skills, including:
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Business Plan Development: Understanding how to structure and present a compelling business model.
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Financial Management & Forecasting: Training on bookkeeping, financial projections, and sound financial decision-making.
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Business Formalization: Guidance on business registration processes and compliance requirements.
By focusing on these core areas, the Accelerator phase ensures that small-scale fishing entrepreneurs are not only equipped with knowledge but are also positioned for long-term success in Lüderitz’s evolving blue economy.
Cohort 2: Innovating the Lüderitz Tourism Experience
Building on the success of the first group, the second cohort of entrepreneurs—focused on tourism—has now embarked on the Ideation Prompting and Business Marathon phases. These workshops introduce participants to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, problem-solving, and business opportunity recognition, with a special focus on Lüderitz’s tourism sector.
Through interactive case studies and hackathon-style problem-solving sessions, participants have worked collaboratively to develop innovative, complementary business ideas that enhance Lüderitz’s appeal as a travel destination.
The Business Marathon further provides hands-on support, networking opportunities, and insights from industry experts, equipping participants with the skills to turn their ideas into viable businesses.
A Commitment to Coastal Community Development
This initiative underscores the entrepreneurial potential within Namibia’s coastal communities. By fostering sustainable small businesses in fishing and tourism, the NIMPA+ entrepreneurship program implemented in partnership with Impact Tank is contributing to the broader vision of strengthening Namibia’s marine protected areas while improving the livelihoods of local entrepreneurs.
For more updates on the NIMPA+ entrepreneurship program, stay connected to our platform.
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