AWEC has successfully accelerated hundreds of African female entrepreneurs who have transformed and grown their businesses. They are seeking the next 200 women who are ready to join our cohort for a high-impact applied learning experience.
From 16 January 2023 – 29 January 2023, AWEC is accepting applications for its highly selective leadership and business management capacity building program. This program is designed for African women entrepreneurs seeking to expand their knowledge, increase their skills, broaden their network, and make lifelong connections.
Program Information for Candidates
The AWEC program is rigorous and time intensive. Fellows should expect to:
Be actively engaged in learning and networking for the entirety of the 12 month program (May 2023-April 2024)
Spend an average of 4 to 6 hours per week participating in AWEC activities, primarily online
Participate in at least one AWEC activity per week throughout the program year
Be challenged, stretched, and inspired as they acquire new knowledge
Develop skills, build their peer network, and transform their businesses
Be matched with a mentor and take ownership of their mentor/mentee relationship
Be introduced to a peer group and actively contribute to group discussions and activities
Gain access to a program advisor from whom they can seek support when needed
Respond to periodic surveys to improve the overall AWEC experience
Benefits
Upon successful completion of the 12-month program, Fellows will:
Form connections with a diverse network of African women entrepreneurs
Establish a relationship with a senior business mentor
Strengthen strategy, leadership and business management skills
Gain skills in finance, marketing, and strategy needed to grow and scale their enterprise
Develop a toolkit of soft skills, including self-confidence, resilience, collaboration, and cross-cultural communications
Eligibility Criteria
Women who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
Current or aspiring entrepreneurs working in any industry and in any country on the continent
Citizens of any African country, currently living on the continent or in the diaspora
Founders of for-profit or social enterprises
Comfortable with remote teamwork and collaboration, especially using digital tools
Proficient in verbal and written English
Regular (at least weekly) access to the Internet through a computer or tablet
Event Timeline
Cohort 6 will run from May 2023 to April 2024. Monthly activities take place individually and as a group;
Expect to participate in 2-3 Zoom-enabled meetings per month between the hours of 1-5pm UTC.
Application Deadline – 29 January 2023
