The Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program has been launched to provide West and Central African women-led SMEs with the tools, skills, and resources necessary to accelerate their growth and secure funding.
Many SMEs, particularly those run by women, face significant barriers to growth, including limited access to finance, inadequate training and mentorship, and a lack of awareness about available funding opportunities. Hence, the creation of this program.
We have outlined in this article, an overview of the program, its objectives, eligibility criteria, and benefits to participants.
Background Information on Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program
The Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program is an initiative of the International Trade Centre (ITC), in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the European Union (EU).
The program seeks to promote the growth of women-led SMEs in West and Central Africa by enhancing their access to finance and investment opportunities, as well as providing them with the skills and tools necessary to attract and retain investors.
The program is a 6-month intensive training and mentorship program that will be delivered virtually, providing participants with the flexibility to learn and participate from anywhere.
The program includes a series of workshops, coaching sessions, and networking opportunities designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to prepare and pitch their businesses to potential investors.
Objectives of Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program
The Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program has the following objectives:
- To improve the investment readiness of women-led SMEs in West and Central Africa.
- To increase the visibility of women-led SMEs in the investment community.
- To provide women-led SMEs with access to finance and investment opportunities.
- To enhance the capacity of women-led SMEs to prepare and pitch to potential investors.
Application Process for Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program
To apply for the program, eligible women-led SMEs must:
- Complete the online application form available on the ITC’s website.
- The application requires the submission of a range of documents, including a business plan, financial statements, and a video pitch.
- Applications will be evaluated based on the eligibility criteria and the quality of the business plan and pitch.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in a virtual interview before the final selection is made.
- Successful applicants will be notified by email and will be required to commit to the program’s timeline and requirements.
For more information, visit the official website at: growth4her.org/apply/
Eligibility Criteria for Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program
To be eligible for the program, women-led SMEs must meet the following criteria:
- Must be legally registered and operating in West or Central Africa.
- The start-up should be at least since it commenced business operations
- A minimum of three employees.
- Must have an annual turnover of between USD 50,000 and USD 2 million.
- The business must be owned or co-owned by women.
Benefits of Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program
Participants in the Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program will benefit from the following:
- Access to a network of investors, mentors, and experts in the field of finance and investment.
- Opportunity to participate in workshops and coaching sessions on investment readiness, financial management, marketing and sales, and business strategy.
- Access to funding opportunities, including the AfDB’s Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative.
FAQs
What is the Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program?
The Growth4Her Investor Readiness Accelerator Program is an initiative of the International Trade Centre (ITC) aimed at enhancing the investment readiness of women-led SMEs in West and Central Africa.
Who is eligible for the program?
Women-led SMEs in West and Central Africa that have been operating for at least two years, have a minimum of three employees, and an annual turnover of between USD 50,000 and USD 2 million, are eligible for the program.
How long is the program?
The program is a 6-month intensive training and mentorship program.
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