SPARK works in regions that are grappling with the complex effects of recent conflicts, including high levels of unemployment and limited educational opportunities for their people. Many of these people do not have resources to contribute to effective and sustainable economic growth of their fragile societies. Out of work, idle, with little invested in the future, are common socioeconomic conditio
ns that risk pushing people toward criminal activity, and re-invoking social unrest. SPARK believes that sustainable economic growth is essential for establishing self-reliance and thereby poverty alleviation. Creating jobs for youth in conflict affected societies and enabling an environment for youth to improve their socioeconomic position, are central in this vision. Through higher education development and job creation SPARK aims to diminish the potential for conflict and contribute to stability. With special attention to marginalised groups, including youth, women and (returning) refugees, SPARK works closely with local partners to equip these populations with knowledge, tools and motivation to lead their conflict affected societies into prosperity. In Liberia, SPARK has deployed a series of context-tailored interventions, including the establishment of the Business Start-up Centre Monrovia, business plan competitions, training programs, mentoring, and coaching. SPARK also provides SME accelerator programs, IT and agriculture sector support programs, policy advocacy, lobbying and access to finance through investment and guarantee funds.
