What We Do » Catalyst Circle

Catalyst Circle

Peer mentoring for the bold, emerging leaders shaping the future of impact incubation in the Global South.

We see—and are determined to bridge—an invisible gap in ecosystem support: the very people championing social entrepreneurs too often operate in silos. These unsung heroes deserve more than applause; they need intentional peer networks and structured support to grow into the future leaders the Global South demands.

Building Future Leaders. Providing Real Support. Always with Heart.

Managers, mentors, and staff—the backbone of impact—often support entrepreneurs with limited resources, scant professional development, and scarce access to structured support. The missing piece? A vibrant peer network for strategic reflection—and the occasional spark of inspiration.

That’s why we created the Catalyst Circle.
A 9-month peer mentoring adventure, developed with The Human Edge and delivered through a European Mentoring & Coaching Council (EMCC)-accredited syllabus. It’s rigorous, practical, and—because people lead it—deeply human.

Contextual and Deeply Human

Whether you’re a programme manager, mentor, or CXO, the Catalyst Circle will equip you with practical skills and a robust network to support your growth—professionally and personally. Learn at your own pace with virtual modules, then dive into lively peer conversations and hands-on practice sessions that turn insights into action.

Build Strong, Trust-based Relationships

With intentional and purposeful conversations.

Forge Connections with Peers

Be part of an ongoing and supportive network of peers.

Deepen Your Self-Awareness

You’ll begin to better understand yourself and your professional leadership capabilities.

Practice Your Mentoring Skills

The live sessions are designed so you can practice what you’ve learned and to do so in a safe environment.

Develop a Mentoring Toolkit

Making incubation practices more efficient and effective.

Know When To Use Certain Models

You will now know when to use specific tools and mentoring models, helping you draw on what you need to engage more effectively and support others.

Your Pathway, Our Starting Line

Whether you’re a leader in an early-stage, mid-stage or late-stage impact incubator‘Incubator’ refers to any organization whose programs primarily focus on vetting and selecting, promising social enterprises, and providing them with a comprehensive range of support services aimed at building and growing them to achieve maximum sustainable impact., our Growth Guidance Programme will meet you where you are in your leadership journey. Based on feedback from past participants, the following are the areas where we know we can make the most impact.

Fundraising Strategies

Expanding and strengthening your donor network

Financial Sustainability

Diversifying revenue streams beyond donations and grants

Leadership and Team Development

Recruiting and retaining the right talent

Succession Planning

Managing transition of incubator‘Incubator’ refers to any organization whose programs primarily focus on vetting and selecting, promising social enterprises, and providing them with a comprehensive range of support services aimed at building and growing them to achieve maximum sustainable impact. founders and leaders

Incubation Strategy

Making incubation practices more efficient and effective.

Governance

Strengthening board level processes & systems

The Catalyst Circle Peer Mentoring Programme is An Immersive Journey.

Our interactive, experiential training equips you to build meaningful relationships, engage in purposeful, forward-looking conversations, and provide constructive feedback—all while fostering a safe, supportive environment where others can learn, grow, and excel.

Mentoring Skills & Practice

Six self-paced Modules
Each participant must complete these modules before moving on to the practice stage.

The Foundation Module: The power of mentoring. Transforming futures.

Module 1: The mentoring mindset.

Module 2: Core skills of a mentor – active listening and asking powerful questions.

Module 3: Core mentoring skills – giving & receiving feedback.

Module 4: Mentoring tools – relationship building & direction setting phases.

Module 5: Mentoring tools – progressing and midway growth phases.

Module 6: Mentoring tools – winding-up and moving-on phases.

Two mandatory Live Practice Sessions

Final Assessment & Onboarding

Matching and Peer Mentoring

Peer matching begins. Matching is typically based on role, geography and context with the goal of 30 pairs.

Peer mentoring begins
Flexible meeting schedule set by each duo. We recommend that each duo will meet every other month.

Two facilitated peer learning sessions to reconnect the cohort, deepen mentoring skills, and create space for shared troubleshooting and learning.

Check-ins for reflection, growth & support

Certificate of Completion

Participants who complete the programme will receive a Certificate of Completion, recognising their achievement. The syllabus is accredited by the EMCC (European Mentoring and Coaching Council), ensuring high standards in mentoring development.

Participants should expect to spend 2–3 hours per month, including self-paced learning, live sessions, and peer calls. This immersive experience is designed to integrate with your work schedule without becoming burdensome.

Investing in Yourself and Your Team

Actual Value

USD $300

Pollinate Impact Members

USD $50

(Exclusive rate for Pollinate Impact network members & allies.)

Non-Members

USD $100

(Open to all ecosystem builders in the Global South.)

Bring a Colleague

USD $40 and $75

(Members: USD $40/ and Non-Members: USD $75/ per additional participant)

FAQ's

What is peer mentoring?

Peer mentoring is a mutual learning relationship — a space where two people, often at a similar stage in their journey, support and challenge each other to grow. Unlike traditional mentoring, which frequently follows a senior–junior dynamic, peer mentoring is about shared growth — offering a space to reflect, exchange ideas, and problem-solve together. It helps build confidence, clarity, and community — especially in complex or fast-evolving fields like entrepreneurship support. In the context of this programme, it’s also a practical way to apply the skills developed during the mentor training — and to strengthen relationships across the wider network.

Who is this programme for?

This programme is open to Pollinate Impact network members and non-members working in entrepreneur support organisations (ESOs) across the Global South, with a focus on Africa and Asia. It is designed for programme managers, trainers, ecosystem builders, and leaders in , accelerators, innovation hubs, or network organisations. You should consider applying if you:

Support entrepreneurs and seek to enhance your approach.
Are interested in developing mentoring skills that extend beyond providing advice.
Wish to connect and learn with peers from different regions of the Global South.
Are open to contributing and growing through mentoring.

You may participate as a mentor, mentee, or both, depending on your experience and learning objectives. Prior mentoring experience is not required.

How do I apply?

Please complete the short application form, which takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. This will help us understand your background, experience, and interest in mentoring. Provide clear and thorough responses.

When is the deadline to apply?

Registration for our June 2026 programme opens up in April.

What are the key benefits of joining this programme?

By taking part, you will:

Develop practical mentoring skills for immediate application.
Strengthen your communication, leadership, and reflective skills.
Access tools and frameworks to support others without relying solely on advice.
Join a peer network spanning Africa and Asia.
Apply your learning through practical peer mentoring.
Enhance your support for entrepreneurs by building intentional, trust-based relationships.
Earn a recognised certificate to advance your professional development.

What are the key commitments for this programme?

Participants are expected to:

1. Attend an information session to learn about the programme and ask questions.
2. Complete the Foundation Module.
3. Participate in the Mentoring Skills and Practice (MSP1) course:
  - Complete six self-paced modules.
  - Attend two live mentoring practice sessions.
  - Submit reflections, feedback, and a final assignment.
4. Participate in the matching process.
5. Engage in peer mentoring throughout the programme:
  - Meet with your peer or peers at least twice per month.
  - Participate in two peer reflection calls.
  - Complete periodic check-in surveys.

What is the time commitment?

Mentor Training
~2 hours/week for self-paced learning
2 x live mentoring practice sessions (2 hours each)
Short reflections + final assignment

Peer Mentoring
~2 x 1-hour sessions/month with your peer(s)
2 x peer reflection calls (2 hours each)
Light-touch check-in surveys

Total estimate: ~30–35 hours across 8 months

What if I can’t make one of the live sessions?

We strongly encourage you to attend the practice and peer calls. They’re your secret ingredients for certification success and a fun learning journey!

What should I expect from the peer mentoring engagement?

During this six-month phase, you’ll be driving your mentoring relationship forward with support from the programme coordinators.

You and your peer(s) will schedule mentoring sessions independently, according to your mutual availability.
No formal reporting is required during this phase. The aim is to keep the relationship natural, reflective, and flexible.
Peer reflection calls provide an opportunity to pause, reflect, address challenges, and share learning with the cohort.
The programme team will offer light-touch support, but you and your peer(s) are responsible for maintaining the momentum and rhythm of your mentoring relationship.

This is your space to apply the tools and mindset developed during training and to grow through ongoing, meaningful conversations.

How will matching work?

Matching will be conducted using information from your application, such as your role, experience, areas of focus, preferences, and overall compatibility.

What if the match doesn’t work?

If the match isn’t quite a perfect pair, we’ll invite you to an open check-in—because a great conversation can work wonders! And if it’s still not a fit, we’ll do our best (timing and magic permitting!) to find you a better match.

Can more than one person from my organisation join?

Absolutely! The more, the merrier—group learning is where the magic happens. Plus, bring your friends from the same organisation and enjoy special discounted rates together!

How much does it cost?

This programme is highly subsidised. The standard value is $330, but fees have been reduced to improve accessibility. Pollinate Impact Members: $50 per participant $40 for each additional person from the same organisation. Non-members: $100 per participant $75 for each additional person from the same organisation. Your spot will be confirmed upon payment. Will I have lifetime access to the Mentoring Skills and Practice course? No, access is time-limited. You will have full access to the MSP1 course and materials until the end of Phase 1.

Do I need prior mentoring experience?

Not even a little bit! This training rolls out the welcome mat for mentoring newbies and seasoned pros looking who want to improve or organise their approach. If you’re curious about using mentoring to grow (for yourself or to sprinkle some wisdom on others), you’re in the right place. Just bring a dash of curiosity and a pinch of reflection—everything else is on the house!

Can I participate as both a mentor and a mentee?

Absolutely! Some folks arrive with superhero skills in one hand and a magnifying glass of curiosity in the other. Feel free to shout out if you’d like to mentor, be mentored, or even wear both hats when you apply!

What certificate will I receive?

You will receive:

A Certificate of Completion for the Mentoring Skills and Practice (MSP1) course, delivered by The Human Edge, aligned with the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC).
A Peer Mentoring Certificate of Completion once you’ve completed your engagement in the 6-month mentoring phase

Both certificates reflect your learning, commitment, and practical contribution in building a more connected and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.