Deadline: 17 February 2025
The U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) of the U.S. Department of State has announced an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out an Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program to train and enhance the capacity of 100 women entrepreneurs across the DRC, targeting women in five designated regions.
In its third iteration in the DRC, AWE promotes women’s economic opportunities and ensures that women have the capabilities and resources needed to participate in the economy. The program harnesses the power of public-private sponsors, local partnerships, and U.S. exchange alumni networks to help women and their business grow, driving localized prosperity.
Funding Information
- Total available funding $35,000
- Award amounts Up to $35,000
- Number of awards anticipated: One
- Project Performance Period: Proposed projects should be completed in 9 months or less.
Expected Outcomes
- Equip participants with knowledge and skills from both U.S. and Congolese training materials to build and scale up sustainable businesses.
- Expand participants’ understanding of social enterprise models.
- Foster participants’ ability to promote economic opportunities for women and increase the number of women-led businesses.
- Facilitate the development of a network of female entrepreneurs and investors to grow women businesses and drive local and international partnerships.
Geographical Focus
- Kinshasa, Goma, Lubumbashi, Bukavu and Kisangani. (Proposal needs to include a venue for Bukavu as there is not yet an American Space.)
Participants & Facilitators
- Reside in DR Congo.
- Own social enterprises or businesses focused on professional development, business incubation, or startup support for women.
- Have 2-5 years of business experience and demonstrate computer proficiency and internet access.
- Are recruited from all 5 regions of Congo via a competitive application process.
- Women business owners who are U.S. alumni will serve as primary facilitators.
- American Spaces network countrywide will serve as venues.
Eligibility Criteria
- The following organizations are eligible to apply:
- Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non governmental organizations
- Public and private educational institutions
- Individuals
Ineligibility Criteria
- For profit entities are not eligible for this funding opportunity.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.
