AWIEF Growth Accelerator Programme (Nigeria)

The programme will attract and select a cohort of 100 beneficiaries of women entrepreneurs and founders with businesses registered and operating in Nigeria who will participate in the 12-month Growth Accelerator and will benefit from a wide range of tailored and refined business development mentorship, training, and advisory services.

Programme Objectives

• The AWIEF Growth Accelerator Programme aims to achieve the following key objectives:
  • Business Development Training
    • Provide WSMEs with access to high-level business development training.
  • Mentorship & Guidance
    • Connect WSMEs with experienced mentors for guidance and support.
  • Financial Access
    • Support WSMEs in accessing credit from FSDH Merchant Bank.
  • Increased Utilization
    • Promote the use of the AGF AFAWA Guarantee for financial growth.
  • Job Creation
    • Increase the number of jobs supported by WSMEs.

Eligibility Criteria

• To qualify for the AWIEF Growth Accelerator Programme, businesses must meet at least ONE of the following criteria:
  • Ownership
    • 51% share of women ownership OR business founded by a woman.
  • Leadership
    • At least 20% share of women in senior management OR 10% share of women on the Board.
  • Products & Services
    • Product(s) or service(s) enhance well-being of women/girls and/or drive gender equity.

Additional Requirements

• Based and operating in Nigeria.
• In post-revenue stage.
• Highly innovative and scalable ventures.
• In operation for not less than three years.
• Owned and/or led by ambitious and committed entrepreneurs.
• Seeking investment, credit, or financing to scale and expand.

Application Process

• Follow these simple steps to apply for the AWIEF Growth Accelerator Programme:
  • Sign up and create an account.
  • Access the official application portal.
  • Complete the required application form with accurate details.
  • You can save your progress and come back at a later time to complete your application
  • Submit your application before the deadline.
  • After submission, you can make edits or corrections on your application up until the deadline.

For more information, visit AWIEF.