Apply Now for the African Funding Readiness Fellowship 2025
Sandra Quarshie 
Africa is home to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, with innovative start ups and small businesses driving economic growth and development. However, accessing funding remains a significant challenge for many African businesses. This is where the African Readiness Funding Fellowship comes in— the fellowship provides a learning environment that prepares African entrepreneurs well enough to be able to access funding for the growth of their businesses.
The fellowship offers a unique blend of training, mentorship, and networking opportunities tailored specifically to the needs of African entrepreneurs.
KEY COMPONENTS
Training and capacity building: Fellows receive extensive training on funding readiness, financial management, and pitching techniques
Mentorship: Experienced industry experts and investors provide one-on-one mentorship and guidance on business leadership, innovation, adaptability, making strategic decisions, and how to collaborate to foster sustainable growth and competitive advantage. Fellows will also be taken through how to streamline operations and leverage technology for business growth
Networking: Fellows connect with a network of peers, investors, and industry stakeholders to learn and also share knowledge.
FELLOWSHIP BENEFITS
- Improved funding readiness and access to capital or funding for either micro, small and medium scale businesses
- Enhanced financial management and pitching skills
- Increased network and connections
- Personalised mentorship and support
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
African entrepreneurs and small business owners with high-growth potential are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants must:
- Demonstrate their ability to show commitment throughout the fellowship
- Possess a reliable internet connection
- Be fluent in written and spoken English
- Have a business currently running or must be planning on opening or starting a business based in Africa
- Be 18 years and above as of January 2025.
APPLICATION AND SELECTION CRITERIA
100 participants will be selected based on business viability, growth potential and strong market potential.
- Stage 1 application ( October 21st-December 16th 2024)
Applicants are to record a 120-second video pitch about their business.
- Stage 2 application (January 2025)
Successful applicants from stage 1 will be asked to answer some specific questions related to the Fellowship in writing.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
The deadline for applying to this fellowship is December 16th, 2024.
