Deadline: January 25, 2026
The IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 is now open for applications! This empowering initiative offers women entrepreneurs across Sub-Saharan Africa the opportunity to scale their green and sustainable businesses while gaining access to funding, mentorship, and valuable entrepreneurial resources.
About the IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme 2026
The IYBA-WE4A (Investing in Young Businesses in Africa – Women Entrepreneurship for Africa) is a flagship programme designed to strengthen women-led businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a specific focus on green and environmentally sustainable enterprises.
The programme is supported by the European Union (EU) and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), and jointly implemented by the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), GIZ, and SAFEEM (a Swiss-based organisation that supports entrepreneurship and innovation in emerging markets).
The initiative aims to empower women entrepreneurs whose businesses are contributing to sustainable economic growth, environmental protection, and job creation within their communities.
Benefits of the Programme
Successful applicants of the IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 will receive a wide range of support to boost their business capacity and growth potential, including:
- Seed Funding: Up to $5,000 (USD) in financial support for eligible green businesses.
- Comprehensive Training: Access to an intensive business development curriculum focused on scaling sustainable enterprises.
- Virtual Masterclasses: Hands-on sessions facilitated by industry experts to enhance entrepreneurial and leadership skills.
- Mentorship Support: One-on-one and group mentorship to guide participants through business planning, strategic development, and fundraising.
- Pitch Preparation: Training on how to craft compelling business plans, financial projections, and pitch videos for investors.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a woman entrepreneur running a business in a green or environmentally sustainable sector.
- The business must be 0–5 years old (early-stage).
- Operate within one of the eligible countries, which include:
- Senegal
- Togo
- Malawi
- Uganda
- Cameroon
- Kenya
- Mozambique
- Tanzania
Programme Timeline and Phases
The programme is structured in five key phases, designed to progressively build participants’ business capacity and readiness for investment:
- Application Phase – Submission of applications by eligible women entrepreneurs.
- Training & Masterclass Sessions – Capacity-building sessions focusing on business growth, sustainability, and innovation.
- Mentorship Phase – Personalised guidance from experienced mentors.
- Business Plan, Financials & Pitch Video Submission – Participants submit comprehensive business plans and pitch materials.
- Seed Capital Disbursement – Successful applicants receive up to $5,000 in seed funding to grow their businesses.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 is January 25, 2026. Interested women entrepreneurs are encouraged to begin their applications early to ensure they meet all requirements before the closing date.
Why You Should Apply
This initiative is more than just funding — it’s a full-circle opportunity to access capital, mentorship, visibility, and growth support. The IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 gives women entrepreneurs the platform to strengthen their green enterprises, contribute to sustainable development, and build long-term business resilience in Africa.
How to Apply
Ready to take your business to the next level? Apply now via the official portal.
👉 Read more about the programme
💼 Need help preparing your application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
