At the core of AWIEF's mission lies the belief that the transformative power of women entrepreneurs is the driving force behind sustainable economic growth and development. Through its wide range of activities, including conferences, workshops, mentorship programs, and awards, AWIEF strives to create an environment conducive to the empowerment of women in the business world.
The AWIEF Growth Accelerator program demonstrates the organization's commitment to supporting women-owned and women-led businesses. By providing targeted support, resources, and opportunities, AWIEF empowers women entrepreneurs to overcome challenges, unlock their full potential, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and economies.
"As we embark on the journey of the 2024 AWIEF Growth Accelerator cohort for South Africa, we invite women entrepreneurs from across the country to join us in this transformative experience," the organization said in a statement. "Together, let us harness the power of innovation, collaboration, and resilience to create a brighter future for all."
“We strongly encourage technology-based and technology-focused businesses to apply, as innovation is a key success factor in today's business landscape”
Since its establishment in 2017, the AWIEF Growth Accelerator has been a fundamental business development program aimed at supporting early-stage and high-growth women-owned or women-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This program provides essential support through growth strategy training, business advisory services, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to finance.
The 2024 AWIEF-Nedbank South Africa program aims to enhance women entrepreneurs' ability to access funding opportunities and grow their businesses, especially in the agriculture and green economy sectors. Customized business development services, tools, mentorship, and skills development are offered to enable participants to achieve their growth objectives.
"For the 2024 cohort, we invite SMEs operating in the agro-industry, agro-processing, green energy, and climate-smart solutions to apply. We strongly encourage technology-based and technology-focused businesses to apply, as innovation is a key success factor in today's business landscape."
To be considered, businesses must meet the following criteria: be South African exempted micro-enterprises (EMEs) or qualifying small enterprises (QSEs), with at least 51% black female ownership; operate in the agriculture (agro-industry, agro-processing), green economy, or climate-smart solutions sectors; be in a post-revenue phase, demonstrating scalability and high levels of innovation; have been in operation for at least three years; be owned or led by ambitious and committed women entrepreneurs; be seeking investment or funding to scale up.
"We are excited to invite qualified applicants to apply for the 2024 AWIEF Growth Accelerator cohort for South Africa."
To submit an application: AWIEF Growth Accelerator Application Form: https://awieforum.typeform.com/awiefnedbank24
The submission deadline is set for March 3, 2024, at 11:59 PM Central Africa Time (CAT).
"Don't miss this opportunity to take your business to new heights and join a community of empowered women entrepreneurs driving change and innovation in the South African economy. Apply now!"