Activity-Based Learning Provided by Empowered.Works
R4B · YOUTH & REFUGEES

Ready for Business

Entrepreneurial skills for vulnerable youth and displaced populations

R4B was built jointly with the International Training Centre and the University of Michigan to help young people with the fewest resources launch a sustainable first business.

Participants at an ILO Ready for Business hand-over ceremony and trial run in the Philippines

What it is

Ready for Business (R4B) is a self-facilitated, activity-based learning programme created by the ILO alongside the International Training Centre (ITCILO) and the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan. It helps vulnerable youth build basic entrepreneurial skills and launch sustainable micro-enterprises.

The programme targets vulnerable youth, local communities, and displaced populations or refugees who are looking to build sustainable livelihoods, teaching practical business ideas, foundational financial literacy and soft skills through interactive modules.

Key features

  • Three-way partnership: Jointly developed by the ILO, ITCILO, and the William Davidson Institute.
  • Audience: Vulnerable youth, local communities, and displaced or refugee populations.
  • Core focus: Practical business ideas, financial literacy and soft skills, taught interactively.
  • Aim: Build the confidence to launch a micro-enterprise and create decent work.
A very large hall of young participants, including Buddhist monks, working through R4B exercises in small groups
R4B reaches a wide range of young people, including students and novice monks, working side by side

Watch it in action

R4B introduction
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