In the heart of Saint Louis City and County, a remarkable initiative is illuminating the path for Afghan refugees, immigrants, asylees, green card holders, and parolees who have made the United States their home after August 2021. The Afghan Support Program, a beacon of hope and support, is offering a lifeline to those with entrepreneurial aspirations, enabling them to establish or expand their businesses, thus transforming dreams into tangible, thriving realities.

Eligibility: Opening Doors to Dreams

The eligibility criteria for the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant are clear, providing an opportunity for individuals to pursue their business ambitions. To qualify for this transformative grant, applicants must fit the following criteria:

1. Be an Afghan refugee, immigrant, asylee, green card holder, or parolee.
2. Have moved to the US after August 2021.
3. Intend to either start a new business or expand an existing one.
4. The business must be located in Saint Louis City or County.

These criteria reflect the program’s commitment to supporting newcomers in their entrepreneurial journey, fostering a sense of belonging, and contributing to the local economy.

The Path to Success: Requirements and Application Process

The application process for the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant is designed to identify passionate entrepreneurs and provide them with the resources necessary for success. Prospective applicants are required to submit the following documents:

1. Business License, Business Entity Registration, and Employer Identification Number (EIN): Essential legal documents that lay the foundation for a legitimate business entity.
2. Comprehensive Business Plan: A roadmap outlining the business’s mission, vision, and strategies for success, including detailed financial statements.
3. Overview of Business Budget: A detailed overview of the business’s financial landscape, offering insights into its fiscal health and sustainability.
4. Utilization Plan for Grant Funds: A breakdown detailing how the grant funds will be utilized to fuel business growth, drive innovation, and ensure long-term success.

Stories of Triumph: Hamdullah Hamdard and Mohammad Reza Hassani

Within the folds of this program lie stories that inspire, stories of individuals who turned their dreams into realities with the help of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant. Among these inspiring entrepreneurs are Hamdullah Hamdard and Mohammad Reza Hassani, whose determination and creativity have illuminated their entrepreneurial journeys.

Hamdullah Hamdard, the visionary founder of Owlsion Pictures, utilized the grant to propel his passion for storytelling onto the global stage. His cinematic expertise and unique narratives have not only captivated audiences but have also paved the way for employment opportunities within the community.

Mohammad Reza Hassani, the enterprising owner of an auto car repair business, transformed his love for automobiles into a thriving enterprise. With the grant’s support, he has not only expanded his services but has also become a beacon of trust, providing top-notch auto repair solutions to the local community.

A Partnership for Progress

Under the guidance of the International Institute’s Community Development Corporation (IISTLCDC) and the Afghan Chamber of Commerce, the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant has allocated $150,000 in funding for 10 deserving Afghan business startups in St. Louis. More than just financial aid, this program offers a comprehensive support system, including valuable resources in financial literacy, credit building, and business plan development. The program’s partnership with the IISTLCDC ensures that entrepreneurs receive not just a grant, but also the knowledge and skills necessary to sustain and expand their businesses in the long run.

In a world where challenges may seem insurmountable, the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant stands as a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and unwavering determination. As these entrepreneurs continue to shape their dreams into realities, they not only enhance their lives but also contribute significantly to the vibrant tapestry of Saint Louis City and County.

The Afghan Support Program’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and building a brighter future is a beacon of hope, a reminder that with the right support, dreams can indeed take flight, transforming lives and communities in the process. As these entrepreneurs embark on their entrepreneurial odyssey, they carry with them the spirit of resilience, the strength of community, and the unwavering belief that dreams, when supported, can change the world, one business at a time.