AAE Green Grant for Women

Funds are subject to availability

• About
• Eligibility
• How to apply
• How to make a donation

About the Program

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) play vital role the economic landscape of Africa as a whole. SMEs serve as the backbone of economic activity, driving growth, employment, and innovation across diverse sectors such as agriculture and technology. These enterprises often provide livelihood opportunities for a wide range of individuals, from highly educated professionals to those with limited formal education. African SMEs face numerous challenges, particularly in the era of renewed globalization. These challenges may include limited access to finance, technological gaps, inadequate infrastructure, and stiff competition from international firms. By addressing these barriers, SMEs can unlock their potential to contribute even more significantly to economic development and poverty alleviation.

The African Women Green Innovation Enterprise Development initiative is a transformative effort that seeks to empower and uplift African women by providing the tools and resources necessary for their economic and social advancement. This initiative aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (UN SDG 5), which emphasizes achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.

The development of this program is instrumental because African women, who often play a pivotal role in their communities, face numerous barriers such as limited access to funding, education, and business skills. These barriers hinder their ability to fully participate in entrepreneurial activities and contribute to economic development. The program provides a platform to address these gaps by offering funding, training, and support to women engaged in various innovative and environmentally friendly projects.

By focusing on women, this program not only contributes to gender equality but also drives inclusive economic growth, thereby addressing both local and global development goals.

AAE, with its history of advocacy, education, and information services for SMEs, as well as mentorship for young entrepreneurs, plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and growth in green economies for SMEs in Africa. The Green Grant for Women specifically targets women entrepreneurs, provides financial support and educational resources, and aims to promote gender equality and women’s economic empowerment, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: “Gender Equality.” This will not only help enhance the status and influence of African women in the business sector, but also inject new vitality into Africa’s sustainable development.

Besides a grant of USD $500, AAE will offer educational training and networking services to enhance entrepreneurs’ knowledge and skills in green technologies and sustainable practices. Additionally, the project will pair entrepreneurs with industry experts and mentors who have a deep understanding of green business development to facilitate knowledge sharing and technology transfer.

Long-Term Impact
With the influence of these actions, women entrepreneurs are expected to promote green technology innovation and encourage the development of African green finance.

Eligibility

• Any female member of the AAE Entrepreneur Group may apply (User Level II and above).
• Participating in the states of AAE Annual Support Cycle
• Membership Certificate
• Application Deadline: 30th September. Applications received after 30th September will be considered after the next two cycles.

How to Apply

Create a new support ticket and include a 200 word essay on why you should be considered for this award.

Donate

Support this initiative with a donation.