Deadline: Unspecified
The Inclusive Enterprise Accelerator for Women, Youth and PwD-Led SMEs in Africa is now open for applications. This initiative is designed to support inclusive small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa by strengthening their investment readiness, improving business systems, and facilitating access to impact-aligned funding opportunities.
The Inclusive Enterprise Accelerator for Women, Youth and PwD-Led SMEs in Africa specifically targets businesses that are creating measurable social and environmental impact while demonstrating strong potential for growth and scalability.
Overview of the Inclusive Enterprise Accelerator
This accelerator programme aims to close the financing and capacity gap faced by women-owned, youth-led, and persons-with-disabilities (PwD)-led enterprises in Africa. By combining structured business support with investor engagement, the programme prepares SMEs to attract capital and scale sustainably.
The accelerator focuses on building resilient, inclusive enterprises that contribute to economic growth, job creation, and social inclusion across African markets.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is open to inclusive SMEs operating across Africa that meet the following criteria:
- Legally registered and commercially active SMEs
- Businesses led by women, youth, or persons with disabilities
- Enterprises already generating revenue
- Strong potential for scalability and long-term sustainability
- Actively seeking equity, debt, or grant funding within the next 12 months
- Demonstrated commitment to social and/or environmental impact
Applicants must be willing to engage fully in business diagnostics, coaching sessions, and investor readiness activities throughout the programme duration.
Programme Structure and Key Phases
The Inclusive Enterprise Accelerator is delivered in three structured phases, designed to progressively strengthen participating SMEs:
1. Business Diagnostics and Clinics
Participating enterprises undergo a comprehensive assessment to identify operational gaps, governance needs, and investment readiness levels.
2. Coaching and Technical Support
SMEs receive tailored technical assistance to strengthen:
- Business and financial documentation
- Governance and management structures
- Growth and scalability strategies
- Integration of gender equity, inclusion, and sustainability practices
3. Investor Engagement and Matchmaking
Enterprises are onboarded onto an impact investment platform and supported to connect with aligned investors. This phase focuses on deal preparation, pitch readiness, and capital matchmaking.
Funding and Support Benefits
Selected SMEs will benefit from a robust support package that includes:
- Access to investment readiness support
- One-on-one coaching and advisory services
- Exposure to impact investors and funding networks
- Opportunity to access up to USD 100,000 in grant or investment-linked support, subject to programme outcomes and investor alignment
This combination of technical assistance and funding facilitation positions enterprises for long-term growth and sustainability.
Focus Areas of the Accelerator
The programme prioritises enterprises that align with the following focus areas:
- Gender equity and social inclusion
- Youth economic empowerment
- Disability inclusion
- Sustainable and responsible business practices
- Scalable business models with measurable impact
Why This Programme Matters
Women-led, youth-driven, and disability-inclusive businesses remain significantly underfunded despite their contribution to inclusive economic development. This accelerator addresses systemic barriers by equipping SMEs with the skills, networks, and capital access required to thrive in competitive markets.
By supporting inclusive enterprises, the programme contributes to stronger local economies and more equitable growth across Africa.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible SMEs are encouraged to prepare their business documentation and submit their applications through the official application portal.
🔗 Read More About the Programme
Need Support with Your Application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to increase your chances of success and ensure your application meets all programme requirements.
