The Graça Machel Trust’s Women Creating Wealth – Intergenerational (WCW-I) edition, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, seeks to transform Africa’s economies by providing meaningful support to women entrepreneurs.
This support enables their growth and, in turn, uplifts their communities, fostering productive exchange and collaboration among women.
The Challenge:
Despite women constituting 58% of Africa’s self-employed population, they face hurdles in achieving significant profits and scaling their businesses, as highlighted in the recent World Bank report, “Profiting from Parity.” Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) play a crucial role in Africa’s economy, driving job creation, economic growth, and poverty reduction across various sectors like agriculture, technology, and services.
Type: Entrepreneurship
Deadline for Graça Machel Trust Women Award
Applicants should stay updated by regularly checking the Graça Machel Trust website for updates. The deadline for applications is April 5th, 2024.
Benefits of Graça Machel Trust Women Award
Here are the benefits of receiving the award:
- Structured training with WCW Online Ignite courses.
- Dedicated support through customized coaching, mentoring, and technical advice.
- Assistance in developing your toolbox of resources for growth.
- Access to a vibrant and supportive business community.
- Invitations to regular entrepreneurship networking events and round tables to build social connections.
- Access to a pool of rated service providers to support growth, market access, and finance needs.
Eligibility Criteria of Graça Machel Trust Women Award
Women entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria to apply:
- Age: 18 years and above.
- Must operate a business in one of these countries: Kenya, Malawi, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia.
- Completed secondary school education.
- Annual business turnover between USD 10,000 to USD 500,000 or equivalent in local currency.
- Minimum 2 years of business experience.
- Not currently enrolled in another entrepreneurship program lasting longer than a week.
- Business employs at least 5 young people and shows potential for further expansion and job creation.
- Operational business or market-tested product/service with growth potential.
- Business structures accepted: sole proprietorships, partnerships, companies, cooperatives, or groups.
- Business falls under sectors like agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, transport, ICT, construction, trade, and renewable energy.
Application Process of Graça Machel Trust Women Award
To apply, please fill out the form below. It takes about 60 minutes and asks for basic business information and your contact details.
Apply here:(https://gracamacheltrust.org/wcw-campaign/)
Program Details:
The program lasts for 10 months:
- 5 months of blended learning: recommended commitment is 4-6 hours per week.
- 5 months of aftercare: 2-3 hours per week.
Upon finishing all assignments and tasks, you’ll receive:
- A Women Creating Wealth certificate.
- An invitation to join a dynamic WCW business community for ongoing support and inspiration in your wealth creation journey.business idea and potential for success.
Tips for Successful Application for Graça Machel Trust Women Award
These are some Tips for Successful Application:
- Clearly articulate your business idea, market potential, and social impact.
- Understand your target market, competitors, and industry trends.
- Provide realistic financial projections.
- Highlight commitment to women’s empowerment and community development.
In Conclusion:
The Graça Machel Trust’s Women Creating Wealth Intergenerational (WCW-I) Edition 2024 offers a special chance for African women entrepreneurs to reach their goals and contribute to sustainable community development. Through financial support, mentorship, and networking, the program empowers women to overcome challenges and achieve economic success. Applicants should review eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and application tips for better success.
FAQs:
Can I apply if my business is in the ideation stage?
Yes, the program welcomes applications from women entrepreneurs at different business development stages.
How long does it take to get a decision?
Applicants can expect a response within a few months after the application deadline.
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