The UB IGNITE project is a flagship initiative designed to establish the Centre of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of The Bahamas. This initiative was developed to support entrepreneurship development, innovation, and business incubation across The Bahamas. The project has delivered training programs, mentorship, pitch competitions, and ecosystem-building activities.

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As the current project cycle concludes, a final evaluation is required to assess performance, impact, lessons learned, and sustainability, while informing future programming and funding opportunities.

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Purpose of the Evaluation

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The purpose of this evaluation is to:

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• Assess the overall effectiveness and impact of the UB IGNITE project

• Evaluate the efficiency of implementation and resource utilization

• Measure outcomes against stated objectives and KPIs

• Identify strengths, challenges, and lessons learned

• Provide actionable recommendations for future phases and scaling

 

Objectives

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The evaluation will specifically:

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• Review program delivery (bootcamps, incubator, mentorship, events)

• Assess participant outcomes (business formation, growth, job creation, funding access)

• Evaluate stakeholder engagement (partners, private sector, government)

• Analyse gender inclusion and youth participation

• Examine financial management and sustainability models

• Assess the project’s contributions to national innovation and entrepreneurship

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Scope of Work

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The evaluator will:

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• Conduct a review of all project documents, reports, and financials

• Develop an evaluation framework and methodology

• Conduct interviews and/or focus groups with

  • Program participants

  • Mentors and facilitators

  • Project staff

  • Key partners and stakeholders

• Analyse quantitative and qualitative data

• Assess alignment with national development priorities

• Benchmark against comparable programs (where relevant)

 

Key Evaluation Questions

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The evaluation should address:

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• To what extent were project objectives achieved?

• What measurable impact has the project had on entrepreneurs and businesses?

• How effective were the program components (training, mentorship, incubation)?

• What were the key success factors and barriers?

• How inclusive was the program (gender, youth, underserved groups)?

• What is the sustainability outlook of the initiative?

• What improvements are needed for future phases?

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Methodology

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The evaluator is expected to propose a robust mixed-methods approach, which may include: surveys, interviews and focus groups, case studies, data analysis (KPIs, financials, participation metrics).

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Deliverables

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The consultant will provide:

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1. Inception Report (methodology, workplan)

2. Draft Evaluation Report

3. Final Evaluation Report (incorporating feedback)

4. Executive Summary (policy-level insights)

5. Presentation of Findings

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Timeline

The evaluation is expected to be completed within 6-8 weeks.

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Reporting

The evaluator will report to the UB IGNITE Executive Director and work closely with the project team.

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Required Qualifications

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• Advanced degree or certification in economics, business, public policy, or related field.

• Minimum 5-7 years experience in program evaluation.

• Experience with entrepreneurship, innovation, or SME development programs

• Strong analytical and report-writing skills.

• Experience in the Caribbean or similar contexts preferred.

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For more information, contact Ms. Randi Miller, Project Coordinator at randi.miller@ub.edu.bs

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