Africa is home to a vibrant and dynamic community of women entrepreneurs, who are driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to the growth and development of their respective economies. Despite these significant contributions, women entrepreneurs in Africa continue to face numerous challenges, including limited access to digital skills training, entrepreneurship support, funding and networking opportunities.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs in Africa, and several initiatives have been launched to address the challenges. One such initiative is the Women in Digital Business (WiDB) program, a fellowship that aims to empower African women entrepreneurs with the digital skills, entrepreneurship support, and networking opportunities they need to succeed.
If you are an African woman entrepreneur or business owner looking to take your business to the next level, The Women in Digital Business (WiDB) program is here to support you. This initiative was launched by AM-Steve house in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and Microsoft Philanthropist.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The WiDB program offers a comprehensive training that covers essential digital skills, entrepreneurship, and business management. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing participants to learn at their own pace. With a focus on practical skills and real-world applications, WiDB is the perfect opportunity for African women entrepreneurs to gain the skills and confidence they need to scale or start their entrepreneurial or business journey.
BENEFITS OF THE WiDB FELLOWSHIP
- Digital Skills Training: Gain essential digital skills, including digital literacy, marketing, accounting, AI, and so on
- Entrepreneurship Support: Receive guidance and support to help you grow your business and achieve your goals
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other women entrepreneurs and industry experts, expanding your professional network and opening up new opportunities
- Flexible Learning: Learn at your own pace, with flexible training programs that fit around your busy schedule.
ELIGIBILITY
The WiDB program is open to African women entrepreneurs who meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Commitment to growth: The business must demonstrate a commitment to growth and development in Africa
- Applicants must be between the ages of 18-40
- Interested applicants must reside in any of the 55 African countries
- Applicants must be aspiring or existing entrepreneurs with a business idea
- Priority will be given to those leading or planning to start a non-tech MSMEs.
VALUE OF FUNDING
- Fully sponsored training and coaching for 50,000 women in different phases and cohorts over the next three years
- Financial support for business registration, tax compliance and branding
- Access to investment readiness training.
TRAINING TIMELINE
- Training will take place online over a 12-week period.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
ONGOING