The auspicious date was chosen deliberately for the historic connection between Diamonds Do Good® and the great Nelson Mandela who urged the founding of the organization over 15 years ago. Diamonds Do Good® recognizes the importance of providing access to capital through a small amount of money invested in businesses driven by entrepreneurs. In keeping with its mission of supporting initiatives that develop and empower people in diamond communities worldwide, Diamonds Do Good® aims to help build and nurture entrepreneurs that are powering the future of their communities by creating jobs and providing goods and services with a positive impact on their communities.
The Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant provides financial support and business expertise to promising entrepreneurs. The 2022 Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant was won by 10 entrepreneurs from diamond-producing countries in Africa including Botswana, the world’s largest producer of gem quality diamonds, DR Congo, Guinea, Sierra Leone, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
“Diamonds Do Good® believes in the strength of community. By supporting entrepreneurs, we are helping shape a sustainable future for all,” said Nancy Orem Lyman. Executive Director, Diamonds Do Good ®.
The largest award of $20,000 was announced by Her Excellency Mrs Neo Jane Masisi First Lady of the Republic of Botswana. The majority of winners were awarded $5,000 grants with one winning a $10,000 grant and another a $20,000 grant. The entrepreneurs ranged from agriculture to transportation to reforestation – all sustainabily impacting their local community.
Over 1,400 entrepreneurs applied for selection into the #UPGBiashara program. Thereafter 20 chosen entrepeneurs pitched their business ideas in “Shark Tank”-type interactions to make their claim for the Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant.
“Entrepreneurs make the world a better place and it is wonderful that the Diamonds Do Good ® Entrepreneurship Grant brings this understanding to life,” said Yemi Babington-Ashaye, President, United People Global.