‘Upskilling the last mile’ training programme for last mile distributors (LMDs)
A bespoke training programme for LMDs
Upskilling the last mile is a management and sales training programme, which builds on learnings from previous GDC training cohorts. It will enable last mile distributors (LMDs) to tackle different challenges such as agent recruitment and management, articulating your value proposition, calculating profit margins, and digitalising your operations. The programme has two training packages; one for senior managers and the other for operational or “middle” managers. Applications are currently closed but we encourage you to keep an eye out for future cohorts.
“It was a great course! Very interesting and informative. The mode of delivery was also engaging because we could relate the modules with our day to day activities and ask questions and the whole process turned out to be fun”
GDC member based in Kenya, selling clean lighting, cookstoves, fuels, appliances, and agricultural equipment.
Eligibility requirements
Geography:
We welcome applications from companies operating across different geographic regions including South Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
Products:
You sell beneficial household products that contribute to one of more of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Time commitment:
About 2.5 hours per week
FAQs
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What is the cost?
Applications are currently closed, and below are the charges for past cohorts.
Training package 1, for middle managers – $200 USD
Training package 2, for senior managers – $200 USD
Both – 300 USD (50% off on the 2nd training package)
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What is the language of delivery?
All online content for training packages 1 and 2, including the four sales agent training modules are usually in English language.
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What is included?
The training had online modules in each package; four online peer learning sessions; an opportunity for one-to-one coaching; and resources to enable participants to cascade key learnings to sales agents.
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What do the training modules cover?
Applications are currently closed, and below are the modules for past cohorts.
Training package 1 – Strategies for accelerating growth at the last mile (for LMD senior managers)
Senior manager modules: Route-to-market and supply chain, enterprise and finance, fundamentals of finance, and investment readiness
Training package 2 – Achieving operational excellence at the last mile (for LMD middle managers and agents)
Middle manager modules: Agent recruitment and management, sustainable communities, portfolio selection and IT & digital
Agents modules: Attract customers, balance your finances, sales effectiveness, and digital marketing & sales
Visit here for more details.
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Which online platform will we use?
TalentLMS
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Can I participate as a last mile distributor if I’m based in any market/region?
Applications are currently closed but we encourage you to keep an eye out for future cohorts. If you have more questions, please get in touch with us at GDC@practicalaction.org.uk
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Where is the training taking place?
The training program offers a fully virtual learning experience. Participants usually have access to learning materials and can complete the program at their own pace and engage with a community of practice on WhatsApp.
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Can I still sign up if I have limited access to digital devices and the internet?
Applications are currently closed, and this is what we have to say about signing up in future if you have limited access to digital devices and the internet.
As most of the training takes place online, we do not recommend signing up unless one has access to the internet.
If you are a middle manager intending to cascade learnings to your sales agents, we usually provide a set of offline resources to help you do this.
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I participated in a previous GDC training programme cohort. Is this relevant for me?
We have refined our training offering based on learnings from the previous training cohort(s). While there are differences, there are also similarities, and we do not recommend future sign-ups from participants that have taken part in a previous GDC training cohort. However, we encourage them to share this opportunity with their colleagues who may find it useful!
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Why is the price different to previous cohorts?
Applications are currently closed but we encourage you to keep an eye out for future cohorts. Below are the charges for past cohorts.
Cohorts before 2023 cost $250 US and consisted of six modules. The 2024-25 cost of $200 per training package reflects the change to four modules each.
Additions – four online peer learning sessions and an opportunity for one-to-one coaching
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What if I want to find out more?
The benefits
For senior managers:
Develop your strategic and leadership skills, and learn about how to grow your last mile distribution company.
For middle managers:
Build your knowledge and know-how on critical areas of distribution, and cascade learnings to your sales agents.
For companies:
Increase your business’ efficiency as your team develops core skills to help drive sales.
“I was satisfied with the content though short but precise, it met my expectations and also the workload was sufficient.””
East Africa-based GDC Member selling clean lighting, cookstoves and fuels.
88% of distributors who participated in cohort 1 would recommend this training programme to their peers
The training programme was funded with UK aid from the UK government, via the Transforming Energy Access platform.
