Are you a female business owner seeking tools, mentorship, and opportunities to expand your business in Uganda? The MTN Uganda Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Programme 2026 has been introduced to support women-led enterprises and empower them to thrive in a competitive marketplace.
Through this initiative, MTN Uganda aims to create a more inclusive business environment where women entrepreneurs can gain access to training, networks, and strategic partnerships that support long-term growth.
MTN Uganda Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Programme 2026
The AWE Programme is a flagship empowerment initiative designed by MTN Uganda to strengthen the performance, sustainability, and competitiveness of women-owned businesses across the country. Launched in 2023, the program has been structured to eliminate long-standing barriers faced by female entrepreneurs, particularly in finance, technology, and market access.
In partnership with top institutions such as DFCU Bank-Women in Business, American Towers Company Uganda, Private Sector Foundation Uganda, The Innovation Village, and the NSSF Hi-Innovators platform, AWE catalyzes inclusive economic development.
By providing mentorship, capacity-building workshops, business support, and access to industry networks, the program helps female entrepreneurs gain practical skills, strengthen their supply chain readiness, and strategically position their businesses for growth.
MTN Uganda Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Programme 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Uganda |
| Programme Name | MTN Uganda Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Programme 2026 |
| Target Group | Women-Led Businesses |
| Programme Partners | DFCU Bank–Women in Business, ATC Uganda, The Innovation Village, PSFU, NSSF Hi-Innovators |
| Support Provided | Training, Mentorship, Capacity Building, Business Networks |
| Eligible Business Types | Limited Companies, Sole Proprietorships, Joint Ventures, Associations |
| Application Deadline | December 11, 2025 |
| Minimum Age for Applicants | 18 years |
| Mode of Participation | In-person & Hybrid Engagements |
| Academic Session / Programme Year | 2026 |
What Is the MTN Uganda AWE Program All About?
The MTN Uganda AWE Programme is a structured capacity-building initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs to unlock their potential and expand their business capabilities. It was introduced as part of MTN Uganda’s broader vision of creating shared value and enhancing the participation of women in local supply chains.
Because women entrepreneurs often encounter challenges in raising capital, adopting technology, and penetrating larger markets, the AWE Programme aims to bridge these gaps through targeted support. The program emphasizes:
- Business training and development
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Exposure to networks and partnerships
- Market visibility and supply chain linkages
The initiative aligns with MTN Uganda’s commitment to accelerating digital and financial inclusion while encouraging women to participate fully in economic opportunities.
Through AWE, a sustainable ecosystem is being built, one that encourages collaboration, innovation, and resilience among women-led enterprises.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the MTN Uganda Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Programme 2026, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:
- Applicants must be 18 years of age and above: Only adults are permitted to apply and participate in the program.
- The applicant must be a female Ugandan entrepreneur. The program focuses strictly on women-led or women-owned businesses.
- Eligible business categories include:
- Limited Liability Companies
- Sole Proprietorships
- Joint Ventures
- Business Associations
- Entrepreneurs must not have a criminal record:Â Applicants with any criminal background will be automatically disqualified.
These criteria ensure that the program remains inclusive while maintaining the integrity and quality of its participants.
Programme Benefits
Participants selected for the AWE Programme 2026 can expect a wide range of benefits structured to build strong, resilient, and competitive businesses. These include:
Business Training and Capacity Building
Women entrepreneurs receive training in essential business areas such as leadership, financial literacy, marketing, business model development, procurement processes, and digital transformation.
Mentorship
Participants gain access to experienced mentors who guide them through their business challenges, help refine their strategies, and support their entrepreneurial journey.
Access to Networks
Through partnerships with financial institutions, innovation hubs, and private sector organizations, the AWE Program connects entrepreneurs to valuable business networks and potential collaborators.
Supply Chain Opportunities
A key goal of the program is to help women-led businesses integrate into MTN Uganda’s supply chain and other corporate procurement systems.
Market Visibility
Participants are given opportunities to showcase their products or services to a wider market, strengthening their brand presence.
Long-Term Business Support
Through partnerships with organizations like DFCU Bank and The Innovation Village, entrepreneurs could gain additional support, such as financing opportunities, incubation services, and technical assistance.
Required Documents
Applicants are expected to prepare and submit the following documents:
- A valid National ID
- Business registration documents (depending on business type)
- Brief business profile
- Contact information and address
- Any additional documents required during the selection process
All documents must be submitted in the format specified on the program’s official portal.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Applicants interested in joining the AWE Programme 2026 should follow the steps below:
Step 1: Visit the Official Programme Website
Access the official MTN Uganda Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Programme website to review full details and begin the application process.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Ensure all required documents are complete, updated, and ready for upload. Any missing document may affect the application.
Step 3: Fill Out the Online Application Form
Complete all sections of the application form carefully. All responses should be clear, accurate, and aligned with the program’s objectives.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Applications must be submitted on or before December 11, 2025. Early submission is advisable to avoid technical issues.
Step 5: Await Communication
After submission, applications will be screened, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages, such as interviews or assessments.
Why Join the MTN Uganda AWE Program?
Empowerment and Growth
The program offers the skills and exposure needed to transform business operations.
Strong Partner Network
With reputable partners from the financial and technological sectors, participants enjoy a supportive ecosystem.
Increased Competitiveness
Through strategic training and mentorship, businesses become more market-ready and resilient.
Opportunity for Scale-Up
Access to modern business knowledge and possible financing opportunities enables women-led businesses to scale.
Contribution to National Development
Participating in the program not only strengthens individual businesses but also supports Uganda’s broader economic goals.
For more information, visit the official webpage of the MTN Uganda Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Programme 2026.
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