funding: $15,000
source-url: https://opportunitydesk.org/2026/07/10/ecowas-youth-and-women-entrepreneurship-programme-2026/
apply-url: https://eywep.cdjscedeao.org/fr/ressources/13
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is implementing the ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme (EYWEP) to promote economic empowerment of young people. The programme will provide funding and support to 3 selected entrepreneurs, with the first-place winner receiving $15,000. The programme aims to support 18-35 year-old entrepreneurs who already have an existing business or entrepreneurial activity.
Overview
The ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme aims to promote the economic empowerment of young people through capacity building, technical support, mentoring, networking, access to business support services, and the development of sustainable entrepreneurship. The programme is open to young people aged 18 to 35 who are nationals or residents of one of the seven pilot countries: Benin, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and Sierra Leone.
- First Place: $15,000
- Second Place: $10,000
- Third Place: $5,000
- Special Award Best Regional Business Plan: $5,000
Eligibility
The call is open exclusively to young people aged 18 to 35 who are nationals or residents of one of the seven pilot countries. Applicants must have an existing business or entrepreneurial activity, and be in need of support to strengthen, stabilize, or develop their business.
- Young people aged 18 to 35
- Nationals or residents of one of the seven pilot countries: Benin, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Sierra Leone
- Existing business or entrepreneurial activity
- Start-ups, structuring or growth start-ups
- Young developers in need of support
Funding & Benefits
- Grants of up to $15,000
- Special prizes
- Connection with financial and technical partners
- Capacity building and technical support
- Mentoring and networking opportunities
- Access to business support services
How to Apply
To apply for the ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme, applicants must submit a complete application package, including an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV), a copy of a valid identity document, a presentation note of the company or activity, a simplified business plan or a presentation of the business model, a projected financial plan, and any additional documents useful for the assessment of the activity.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copy of a valid identity document
- Company presentation note
- Simplified business plan or business model presentation
- Projected financial plan
- Company legal documents (if applicable)
- Additional supporting documents
Why This Matters
The ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme is a competitive programme that aims to support young entrepreneurs in West Africa. With a total of $30,000 in funding available, the programme provides a unique opportunity for young entrepreneurs to receive funding and support to develop their businesses. The programme's focus on capacity building, technical support, and mentoring also highlights the importance of providing young entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
The programme's selection criteria, which includes the relevance of the activity or company, level of structuring of the entrepreneurial project, and potential for strengthening and growth, also suggests that the programme is looking for entrepreneurs with a clear vision and a strong business plan. Overall, the ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme is a valuable opportunity for young entrepreneurs in West Africa to receive funding and support to develop their businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for applying to the ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme?
The deadline for applying is July 16, 2026.
How much funding is available through the programme?
The programme offers grants of up to $15,000, as well as special prizes and connections with financial and technical partners.
Who is eligible to apply for the programme?
The programme is open to young people aged 18 to 35 who are nationals or residents of one of the seven pilot countries: Benin, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and Sierra Leone.
What documents do I need to submit as part of my application?
Applicants must submit a complete application package, including an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV), a copy of a valid identity document, a presentation note of the company or activity, a simplified business plan or a presentation of the business model, a projected financial plan, and any additional documents useful for the assessment of the activity.
How will my application be evaluated?
Applications will be evaluated based on the relevance of the activity or company, level of structuring of the entrepreneurial project, potential for strengthening and growth, economic and financial viability, real need for support and networking, production or service capacity, current or potential socio-economic impact, potential for job creation or maintenance, motivation of the candidate, and ability to take advantage of the coaching program.
What happens after I submit my application?
After submitting your application, it will be reviewed and evaluated by the programme's selection committee. If your application is selected, you will be notified and may be invited to participate in further evaluation or interviews.