Business Acceleration for Youth Project Launches its Acceleration Program

This new acceleration program serves as an extension to the project’s existing incubation program, focusing on assisting 60 SMEs that have surpassed the initial start-up phase and now require external resources to continue growing. To propel these enterprises during their critical growth phase, the program will offer invaluable technical support and facilitate access to investment.

“The program presents a remarkable opportunity for SMEs to enhance their entrepreneurial capacity. Through the Business Acceleration for Youth project, we aim to foster innovative and impactful entrepreneurship by offering tailor-made technical assistance and mobilizing private sector financing for investment-ready enterprises. In addition, the acceleration program will provide mentorship, coaching, networking opportunities, and industry-specific expertise to help SMEs accelerate their growth and achieve long-term success,” said David Slane, the project’s Chief of Party.

Following the closure of the application process, the project is presently in the screening phase, rapidly reviewing the applications received. Firms passing the initial screening will be assessed further through interviews and other due diligence processes. This is intended to gather more information about the applicants’ businesses and ensure a best fit with the Project’s objectives. Firms reaching the final stage will undertake business needs self-assessments to identify their support needs. These processes will ensure that the program delivers bespoke services tailored to match the unique needs of each SME.