FAO-ITC EWAT Programme Offers Investment Readiness Bootcamps for Women in Ghana and Nigeria

The farmer leader Yagu Bangura poses in front of seed bags stored at the warehouse of the Tauropanneh Agri-business Centre in Bombali District, Sierra Leone © Sebastian Liste
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) are jointly spearheading a transformative initiative known as the Empowering Women and Boosting Livelihoods through Agricultural Trade (EWAT) program. Aimed at leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), this project is designed to empower women in the agrifood sector, creating opportunities for growth and prosperity in Ghana and Nigeria.
The EWAT program has announced an exciting opportunity for women-led businesses and cooperatives in both countries. It is inviting applications for two Investment Readiness Bootcamps, which will be held in Accra, Ghana, on 24th and 25th July 2023, and Lagos, Nigeria, on 10th and 11th August 2023. Interested women entrepreneurs can seize this remarkable opportunity to grow and develop their businesses within the agricultural and agro-processing sectors by applying through the following link: https://www.shetrades.online/survey/view.php?id=206067
To qualify for the bootcamps, applicants must meet certain criteria. Firstly, the micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) must operate within the agrifood sector. Additionally, the MSME should fall within the micro and small enterprise category or be in its startup phase. Most importantly, the MSME must be a women-led business or women-led cooperative, highlighting the emphasis on promoting gender equality and women’s leadership in the agricultural sector.
Participants should possess at least basic knowledge of bookkeeping, ensuring they can effectively manage financial matters within their businesses. The MSMEs must have been in operation for at least a year and demonstrate the intent to seek financial assistance within the next six months, underscoring the bootcamps’ focus on assisting emerging businesses in accessing capital for growth.

To maximize the benefits of the bootcamps, the selected company representative must commit to attending both days of the event. Proficiency in English is also required, as the workshops and interactions will be conducted in English.
The EWAT program, in collaboration with the ITC, will play a pivotal role in facilitating the investment readiness bootcamps. Additionally, they will provide catering for both days and foster connections with capital providers, presenting an exceptional chance for the participants to network and forge valuable partnerships.
Although 35 spots are available for each country, it is crucial for interested entrepreneurs to act swiftly, as selections will be made on a first-come-first-served basis. To secure their places, applicants must submit their applications by 7th July 2023, 12:00 PM GMT. Remember, only one spot will be allocated per selected company, so early application is essential.
For those women entrepreneurs who live outside Accra or Lagos, the project offers the possibility of transportation and/or accommodation support, subject to confirmation after the selection process. Nevertheless, it is the responsibility of the participants to cover the costs associated with transportation to the venue.
To ensure effective project reporting, the woman entrepreneurs must complete all evaluation forms issued by the FAO and ITC after the event. These evaluations are critical to capturing the impact and success of the bootcamps.
Selected participants also grant permission to the FAO and ITC to take and use photos produced during the two-day bootcamp, further contributing to the program’s documentation and showcasing the achievements of the women entrepreneurs.
The EWAT program, together with the FAO and ITC, is dedicated to fostering a conducive environment for women in the agrifood sector to thrive. By offering these investment readiness bootcamps, they are taking substantial steps towards unlocking the potential of women-led businesses and cooperatives in Ghana and Nigeria, paving the way for economic empowerment and enhanced livelihoods.