ITC trains Tech Hub Coaches to support startup growth in Sierra Leone

The International Trade Centre (ITC), under the KOICA-funded READY Salone project, has successfully trained 20 tech hub coaches in the use of the FastTrackTech 360Diagnostics Startup Assessment Tool. The training, held at the IPAM Centre of Excellence in Freetown, equipped participants with the skills to assess startups, identify key strengths and weaknesses, and provide strategic guidance for business growth.

The 360Diagnostics Tool is a comprehensive framework that evaluates startups across key business dimensions, including strategy, operations, marketing, and financial management. With this training, the coaches will play a crucial role in helping Sierra Leonean startups conduct self-assessments, interpret diagnostic reports, and implement recommendations to improve their business performance.

Led by an international expert, the programme combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on exercises, ensuring participants gained practical experience in conducting assessments and generating diagnostic reports. The curriculum also introduced an early-stage business development framework designed to foster innovation, preparing coaches to support startups both in Freetown and across the regions.

Key Outcomes of the Training include proficiency in the FastTrackTech 360Diagnostics tool; ability to guide startups through the assessment process, and skills to structure and deliver actionable insights based on diagnostic reports.

Upon Completion, participants gained certification, enhanced expertise in startup assessment tools and methodologies, opportunities to support READY Salone startups in their growth journey, potential contracts to conduct startup assessments, and prospects for future collaboration with ITC and its partner networks.

The READY Salone project, funded by KOICA and implemented by ITC, continues to strengthen entrepreneurship and digital transformation in Sierra Leone. By supporting the local startup ecosystem, the project is fostering sustainable economic growth and innovation.