Welcome to the official website of Swakalpa, a self-employment training and entrepreneurship skill development program initiated by the Odisha Skill Development Project (OSDP). Swakalpa aims to equip 10,000 ambitious youth with the necessary skills and knowledge on Self-employment & entrepreneurship & establish at least 1,000 micro-businesses in the state of Odisha. With a strong emphasis on gender equality and inclusivity, Swakalpa endeavours to ensure a minimum 25% representation of women at all stages, from training to entrepreneurship.

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Under the guidance of the World Skill Center (WSC) and the Odisha Skill Development Authority (OSDA), Swakalpa offers 100 hours of entrepreneurship skills training to youth who have previously undergone skill training in Odisha. This training is inclusive of women and disadvantaged groups, with a focus on empowering them to become successful entrepreneurs. Additionally, shortlisted candidates are provided with 24 weeks of personalized mentoring to assist them in establishing their own enterprises or micro-businesses within the state.

 

Swakalpa encompasses priority sectors such as fabrication, electrician work, handlooms, food processing, beauty, and more. The program is led by Palladium Consulting India Private Limited, along with its partner organizations, operating across various districts of Odisha. By collaborating with these partners, Swakalpa ensures comprehensive coverage and support for aspiring entrepreneurs.

 

Tailored Training Curriculum:

Swakalpa offers fully-funded 100-hour training sessions designed to equip candidates with the functional knowledge and skills required to set up or scale up successful business ventures. The program covers essential topics vital for every entrepreneur, including business planning, marketing, sales, finance, operations, and leadership. Seasoned instructors with real-world expertise guide participants through interactive sessions, providing them with practical insights and knowledge.

 

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs:

Swakalpa is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity, with a particular focus on empowering women. One-fourth of the program's beneficiaries are women, ensuring their active participation at every stage. Swakalpa aims to create an environment where previously marginalized women feel supported in pursuing their professional visions and plans. This commitment to gender equality is a fundamental driver for the program's success.

 

Selection and Mentorship:

Swakalpa's program coverage is extensive. A cohort of more than 10,000 ambitious individuals, aged between 15 and 45 years, possessing diverse skill sets, will be selected from various districts of Odisha through a meticulous mobilization process. These selected candidates will undergo a carefully curated 100-hour entrepreneurship development curriculum. Moreover, experienced industry professionals will be deployed to provide personalized mentorship and guidance to 1,000 entrepreneurs. Through one-on-one interactions, these mentor-entrepreneur relationships will facilitate the honing of entrepreneurial abilities, networking opportunities, and invaluable real-world experiences. For the remaining 9,000 trained candidates, Swakalpa will facilitate self-employment opportunities.