Call for Applications: ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme (EYWEP) for Young Entrepreneurs
Applications are now open for the ECOWAS Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Programme (EYWEP), a regional initiative designed to empower young entrepreneurs and women across West Africa through entrepreneurship training, business development support, mentorship, and access to financing.
The programme is a joint initiative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and AUDA-NEPAD, implemented by the ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development Centre (EYSDC).
EYWEP aims to foster innovation, strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems, and support the growth of sustainable businesses across ECOWAS Member States.
Programme Benefits
Successful participants will receive:
- Comprehensive entrepreneurship and business management training
- Capacity-building workshops
- Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Technical assistance to strengthen and scale their businesses
- Access to business development support services
- Opportunities to connect with investors and financing initiatives
- Regional networking opportunities with entrepreneurs across ECOWAS countries
- Exposure to best practices and innovative business models in West Africa
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Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to:
- Young entrepreneurs
- Women entrepreneurs
- Youth-led startups
- Women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Entrepreneurs with innovative and sustainable business ideas
- Businesses capable of creating positive socio-economic impact within ECOWAS Member States
Programme Focus Areas
EYWEP supports entrepreneurs and businesses operating in sectors including:
- Technology and Digital Innovation
- Agribusiness
- Manufacturing
- Green Economy
- Creative Industries
- Service-Based Businesses
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Other high-impact sectors driving economic growth and sustainable development across West Africa
Why You Should Apply
Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) are critical drivers of economic growth, innovation, and job creation across West Africa.
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Through EYWEP, ECOWAS seeks to strengthen youth- and women-led enterprises by improving access to quality training, expert mentorship, business support services, and financing opportunities.
The programme is designed to help entrepreneurs build resilient, competitive, and sustainable businesses that contribute to regional economic integration and long-term development.
Application Deadline
Applicants are advised to check the official EYWEP application portal for the current application deadline, as it may vary depending on the application call or cohort.