South Africa

The AWIEF-NedBank Women Enterprise Growth & Export Programme 2026 is open to South African women entrepreneurs. If you are looking for a business growth and export-focused opportunity, this programme may be relevant. Application Deadline: 7 September 2026, 23:59 (SAST). Tell Me About the Opportunity: The Nedbank–AWIEF Women Enterprise Growth & Export Programme is a fully funded 12‑month enterprise and supplier development programme for established, black women‑owned, product‑based businesses in South Africa. It helps participants strengthen operations, improve financial and market readiness, and access larger corporate, retail, public‑sector, regional, and international opportunities. Over three years, the partnership will support 75 SMMEs, with 25 businesses per cohort. Which Sectors are Eligible? The programme is open to product‑based businesses in 11 priority sectors: Agriculture & Agro‑processing Manufacturing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Cleaning & Hygiene Textile, Apparel & Accessories Beauty, Wellness & Personal Care Tourism & Hospitality Design & Craft Building & Construction Green Economy & Renewable Energy Circular Economy Type: Enterprise and supplier development programme — fully funded. Who can Apply? Applicants must represent a business that: Is at least 51% owned by black women (per B‑BBEE Act). Qualifies as an Exempted Micro Enterprise (EME) or Qualifying Small Enterprise (QSE). Is legally registered and operating in South Africa. Is post‑revenue, currently trading and serving paying customers. Is product‑based (producing, manufacturing, processing, packaging, distributing physical products). Operates in one of the priority sectors. Can nominate a woman owner who will commit to the full 12‑month programme. How are Applicants Selected? Applications go through: Screening & shortlisting Due diligence & structured interviews Final selection of 25 businesses for the cohort Which Countries Are Eligible? South Africa only. Where will the Opportunity be Taken? Hybrid delivery (virtual + in‑person). The official launch takes place at the AWIEF2026 Conference & Exhibition (Cape Town International Convention Centre, 10–11 November 2026). How Many Opportunities? 25 businesses per cohort, 75 over three years. What is the Benefit of the Opportunity? Practical business growth training Individual diagnostic & development plan Coaching & technical mentoring Supplier & retail readiness support Finance & investment readiness Export development & market‑access linkages Networking with buyers, retailers, and partners Participation in AWIEF2026 Conference Fully funded — no participation fee How Long Will the Support Last? 12 months (Nov 2026 – Oct 2027). How to Apply: Complete the online application form via the AWIEF portal Ensure eligibility criteria are met Submit before 7 September 2026 Visit the Application Webpage for Details

AWIEF-NedBank Women Enterprise Growth & Export Programme 2026 for South African Women Entrepreneurs

Blue Ambition Fund 2026 Call for Applications for funding for SMEs & Youth Employment

South Africa

AWIEF-NedBank Women Enterprise Growth & Export Programme 2026 for South African Women Entrepreneurs

Blue Ambition Fund 2026 Call for Applications for funding for SMEs & Youth Employment

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