Be a part of a network of 1600 women entrepreneurs across 53 African Countries

Transform your Business

Through practical learning, mentorship, and a powerful pan-African community, you’ll gain the tools to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities in and for your business. This is more than a program, it’s a movement of women transforming their businesses, communities, and the continent.

Who Should Apply?

Women who are:

  • Founders of businesses that have been in operation for at least two years in any industry and have at least two employees (either full time or part time). Aspiring entrepreneurs are not eligible

  • Citizens of any African country, currently living on the continent or in the diaspora. For those living in the diaspora, your business must clearly impact Africa through the creation or delivery of its products or services, or based on where its customers reside.

  • Comfortable with remote teamwork and collaboration, especially using digital tools

  • Proficient in verbal and written English

  • Able to regularly (at least weekly) access the Internet through a computer or tablet

AWEC admissions do not discriminate based on race, religion, age, disability, marital status, education, business revenue, or geographic location.

Your Business Transformation Starts Here!

FAQs

  • Fellows should expect to spend an average of 4 to 6 hours per week participating in AWEC activities (primarily online), for one year. Fellows are expected to participate in at least one AWEC activity per week throughout the 12 month program. Please seriously consider this time commitment before applying and/or accepting an offer to participate in AWEC.

  • The 2026-2027 program would begin with orientation in May 2026.

  • Fellows are not required to travel. Most of the AWEC program activities are conducted online and can be completed from anywhere a participant has an Internet connection. However, there are some opportunities to connect for in-person learning and networking opportunities.

  • Founders of social enterprises are encouraged to apply; founders of NGOs or nonprofit organizations are not eligible for the 12-month program