Project: GROW Tunisia Mentoring Programme

Location: Tunisia

Client: Oxfam and Impact Partner

Years: 2020–2021

Country: Tunisia

Description

The GROW Tunisia programme, delivered by The Human Edge in partnership with Oxfam and Impact Partner, was a 9-month mentoring initiative designed to support growth-stage Tunisian entrepreneurs. Taking place during a period of economic uncertainty and pandemic-related challenges, the programme aimed to strengthen individual entrepreneurs while embedding mentoring capacity within the local ecosystem for long-term impact.

Objectives

• Help entrepreneurs gain confidence, clarity and strategic tools to grow their businesses
• Train experienced professionals to become skilled, reflective mentors
• Build the capacity of Impact Partner to independently design and deliver future mentoring programmes
• Foster trust-based relationships that could support resilience and adaptability during crises

Approach

The Human Edge designed and delivered a dual-track strategy focused on entrepreneur development and local ecosystem strengthening. The programme included:

• A 6-day experiential workshop introducing mentoring principles and leadership tools
• Careful matching of 10 mentors and 10 mentees from Impact Partner’s grantee pool
• Ongoing support through monthly check-ins, peer learning calls and a mid-programme refresher
• Tailored capacity building for Impact Partner to sustain and scale future mentoring efforts

Impact

Entrepreneur Growth

• 90% of mentoring pairs remained active through all 9 months
• 70% of entrepreneurs achieved the goals they had set
• Entrepreneurs reported stronger resilience, improved strategic thinking and better self-awareness
• 60% of participants increased revenue or funding during the programme
• 100% of mentee businesses remained operational in a tough economic climate

Mentor Development

• 100% of mentors said they would recommend the programme
• Mentors deepened their listening, empathy, and coaching skills
• Mentoring relationships became sources of reflection, strategic feedback and peer learning

Systemic Change

• Impact Partner developed hands-on capability in programme design, delivery and mentor support
• A regional mentoring community was seeded
• The experience laid the foundation for future entrepreneurial support programmes in Tunisia and beyond

Key Takeaways

• Mentoring multiplies resilience: In volatile environments, trust-based relationships offered emotional support and clear strategy.
• Capacity building extends impact: By investing in Impact Partner’s skills, GROW created a legacy that outlives the programme.
• Relational leadership works: Entrepreneurs and mentors alike grew in self-awareness, strategic clarity and connection.