At Neighbours Shop, we have developed a comprehensive model that empowers women entrepreneurs while ensuring efficient, sustainable business operations. Our process is designed to provide beneficiaries with fully-equipped, solar-powered kiosks, initial stock, ongoing restocks, and a profit-sharing structure—all aimed at creating financial independence and long-term growth for each participant.

Here’s how our program works:

Step 1: Application and Selection

We invite applications from widows, single women, and women aged 20 to 50 who reside in Lagos and Ogun States for now. Our program focuses on empowering women who are ready to take on the challenge of running their own business all over the country.

• How to Apply: Interested candidates can apply online through our website, or by attending one of our community outreach sessions where we assist with the application process.

• Selection Process: Applications are carefully reviewed based on need, location, and readiness to operate a kiosk. We prioritize candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to entrepreneurship and community development.

Step 2: Training and Preparation

Comprehensive Training: After selection, beneficiaries undergo a thorough training program designed to prepare them for running their kiosks efficiently. This training covers both business management and technology use, ensuring that each woman is fully equipped to handle daily operations.

What’s Covered in Training:

• Business Management: Understanding how to manage stock, sales, and customer interactions.

• Digital Literacy: Using the tablet PC connected to the cloud to track sales, manage inventory, and monitor financials.

• Sustainability Practices: Learning about solar-powered business operations and adopting eco-friendly practices..

Step 3: Receiving the Kiosk and Initial Stock

• Free Solar-Powered Kiosk: Once training is complete, each beneficiary is provided with a fully-equipped kiosk, free of charge. The kiosk includes a solar-powered setup, a freezer, and a tablet PC, allowing for efficient, environmentally friendly business operations.
  

• Initial Stock: Neighbours Shop provides the initial stock of goods to fill each kiosk, carefully selected to meet the needs of the local community. Beneficiaries don’t have to worry about sourcing products themselves, as we handle the supply chain.

Step 4: Daily Restocks and Cash Remittance

• Daily Restocks: Kiosks are restocked every day to ensure that they remain fully operational and can meet customer demand. Neighbours Shop manages the inventory process, ensuring that beneficiaries always have access to the products they need to sell.
  

• Cash Remittance: At the end of each business day, agents (kiosk operators) are required to remit their daily sales cash into Neighbours Shop’s bank account. This ensures smooth financial management and accountability for the sales made through each kiosk.

Step 5: Profit Sharing and Payments

• Profit Sharing Structure: The profit from sales is split based on the margins of each item sold, with Neighbours Shop offering various profit-sharing scenarios depending on the franchise arrangement. The specific profit-sharing arrangement for each kiosk is detailed in the agent’s contract, which is presented when they receive their kiosk.
  

• Weekly Payments: Each agent’s share of the profits is calculated weekly and paid into their personal bank accounts every Monday. This ensures a steady stream of income for the beneficiaries, allowing them to reinvest in their business or support their families.

Step 6: Ongoing Support and Mentorship

• Continuous Support: Neighbours Shop provides continuous support to each kiosk operator, ensuring they have everything they need to succeed. This includes technical assistance for the tablet PCs, inventory management guidance, and operational troubleshooting.
  

• Mentorship Program:We pair each kiosk operator with a mentor who provides business advice and support. Through this mentorship, agents receive guidance on how to grow their business, improve customer engagement, and maximize profits.

Step 7: Long-Term Business Growth

• Scaling the Business: As their businesses grow, agents have the opportunity to expand their product offerings and increase their customer base. Neighbours Shop provides the necessary tools and guidance to help agents scale their businesses and achieve long-term success.
  

• Access to Financial Services: We also facilitate access to credit and financial services for agents looking to further expand their operations. Through partnerships with financial institutions, we ensure that beneficiaries can access loans or additional capital as needed.