1. Background

The Community Business Facilitator is a key position that plays a critical role in driving community development and empowerment within Roma communities. The Facilitator serves as a catalyst for identifying and supporting Roma entrepreneurs, organizing community-based informative sessions, and linking entrepreneurs with relevant programs and stakeholders. The Community Facilitator also fosters trust and collaboration among Roma entrepreneurs, government entities, financial institutions, and business development experts to enhance entrepreneurial opportunities.

2. Objective

The primary objective of the Community Business Facilitator is to serve as a bridge between Roma communities and available entrepreneurship programs, funding opportunities, and relevant institutions. The facilitator will provide support and guidance to Roma entrepreneurs throughout their entrepreneurial journey, from ideation to business registration and growth.

3. Key Responsibilities

1. Community Mapping and Outreach

1. • Identify and map Roma entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs within the targeted community.
   • Build and maintain a comprehensive database of Roma entrepreneurs, including their needs, challenges, and aspirations.
   • Develop and implement outreach strategies to engage Roma entrepreneurs and foster community participation in entrepreneurship initiatives.

2. Information Dissemination

1. • Organize and conduct informative sessions on available entrepreneurship, funding programs, and support services for Roma entrepreneurs.
   • Collect, curate, and publish available calls for proposals, grants, and funding opportunities on a weekly basis.
   • Ensure timely and effective communication of relevant opportunities to the community through various channels (e.g., social media, community meetings, newsletters).

3. Relationship Building and Trust Development

1. • Build and nurture strong relationships with Roma entrepreneurs, community leaders, and key stakeholders.
   • Establish trust and credibility within the community by demonstrating commitment, empathy, and understanding of community dynamics and needs.
   • Serve as a liaison between Roma entrepreneurs and government institutions, financial organizations, business development experts, and other relevant entities.

4. Guidance and Facilitation of Applications

1. • Guide and facilitate Roma entrepreneurs in applying for government programs, grants, business support services, and other funding opportunities.
   • Assist in the preparation and submission of applications, including business plans, proposals, and required documentation.
   • Provide personalized support to ensure entrepreneurs meet eligibility criteria and deadlines for various programs.

5. Business Registration and Legal Support

1. • Assist Roma entrepreneurs with the process of business registration and legal compliance, including obtaining necessary licenses, permits, and certifications.
   • Coordinate with relevant institutions and authorities to streamline the business registration process for entrepreneurs.

6. Support for Entrepreneurship Fairs and Events

1. • Organize and support entrepreneurship fairs, networking events, and capacity-building workshops to connect Roma entrepreneurs with potential partners, customers, and investors.
   • Facilitate linkages between Roma entrepreneurs, business development experts, financial institutions, and other relevant stakeholders.

7. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

1. • Monitor the progress of Roma entrepreneurs and provide ongoing support to address challenges and identify new opportunities.
   • Maintain accurate records of all activities, sessions, and events organized and produce regular progress reports.

1. • Provide feedback and recommendations for improving community facilitation and entrepreneurship support strategies.

4. Required Qualifications and Experience

• A degree in Social Sciences, Community Development, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience working within Roma communities or with marginalized groups is essential.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in community facilitation, entrepreneurship support, or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of entrepreneurship development, funding programs, and community development principles.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Proven experience in organizing community events, workshops, and outreach activities.
• Fluency in the local language; knowledge of the Romani language is a significant advantage.

5. Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of community dynamics and the ability to work effectively within diverse cultural contexts.
• Ability to engage and motivate community members, build trust, and foster collaboration.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• High level of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and commitment to community development.

6. Reporting and Supervision

The Community Facilitator will report to the Regional Business Centre Coordinator and work closely with other team members, Roma entrepreneurs, and stakeholders involved in community development and entrepreneurship support.

7. Expected Deliverables

• Weekly updates on available entrepreneurship and funding programs and calls.
• Monthly progress reports detailing community mapping, outreach activities, and entrepreneur support.
• Records of informative sessions, events, and workshops organized, including attendance and feedback.
• A database of Roma entrepreneurs and their development status.
• Documented case studies and success stories of Roma entrepreneurs supported.

Deadline for applications: May 29, 2025

Please send your letter of interest, CV, and optionally a recommendation letter to: redimk@redi-ngo.eu

Make sure to clearly state which expert position you are applying for in your application.

The subject of this mail should be: Application for Business Facilitator