MONROVIA — Liberian mini, micro and small business owners have a new shot at funding, mentorship and visibility as a diaspora Liberian group; Roots & Returns opens applications for its inaugural Palava Hut Pitch.
Speaking to reporters in Paynesville on Wednesday, October 21, the Executive Producer and Co-Founder Lotten Yeaney explained that the event will take place December 21, 2026, at the Liberian Learning Center in Paynesville.
She asserted that Roots & Returns is built on a simple idea: capital can help businesses grow, but trust is what makes investment sustainable.
The initiative seeks to strengthen trust between Liberian entrepreneurs at home and the diaspora while directing capital, mentorship and relationships toward businesses that sustain families and communities.
Who Can Apply?
The Palava Hut Pitch is for businesses already operating. Entrepreneurs seeking between US$250 and US$5,000 will have the opportunity to take the stage, share their stories, explain what they have built and where they want to go next.
She noted that selected finalists will pitch before judges, mentors and supporters.
She stressed that funding is not a loan and does not have to be repaid. Recipients are simply expected to continue operating their businesses and remain connected and in communication with mentors and supporters in their cohort.
More Than Money
Roots & Returns Co-Founder indicated that the pitch is not just about winning funding, but about being seen, making connections, receiving guidance, and celebrating entrepreneurs already doing the work.
She maintained that the organization will also engage community leaders and the Liberian Learning Center to stay connected with recipients beyond pitch day.
“At its heart, Roots & Returns is confronting one of the biggest barriers to greater diaspora investment in Liberia: trust. And that challenge goes both ways,” Madam Yeney stated.
The group noted that diaspora members have experienced misused funds, poor communication, or commitments that were not honored, while Liberians at home have experienced promises from the diaspora that never materialized, creating skepticism and disappointment.
“Trust cannot be demanded from one side. It must be earned by both.”
“Because when trust grows, investment can follow. Businesses can grow. Jobs can be created. Families and communities can become stronger. That is the return we are after.”
Applications are now open at rootsreturns.com/apply.
About Roots & Returns
Roots & Returns connects storytelling, access to capital and community support to help existing Liberian businesses grow. Its tagline is “Trust Is the First ROI.”