CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: ECOWAS YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMME (EYEP)
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), through its Centre for Youth and Sports Development (CDJS), in partnership with AUDA-NEPAD, invites applications for the ECOWAS Youth and Women’s Entrepreneurship Programme (EYWEP).
This initiative is designed to empower young entrepreneurs by providing capacity building, mentorship, technical support, and access to business development opportunities that foster sustainable enterprise growth.
Who Can Apply?
This call is open to:
Young people aged 18–35 years
Nationals or residents of the following pilot countries:
Benin, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and Sierra Leone
Entrepreneurs with existing businesses or operational ventures (formal or informal)
Start-ups in the structuring or growth stage seeking support
Eligible Sectors
Businesses must operate within one of these priority areas:
Pharmaceutical industry
Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
Solar and renewable energy
Agrosilvopastoral and agricultural value chains
Programme Objectives
Selected participants will receive support to:
Strengthen and scale their businesses
Improve production and service delivery
Enhance financial and entrepreneurial management
Access mentorship, networking, and partnerships
Increase market visibility and business resilience
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Grants & Awards
Top-performing projects will receive:
🥇 First Prize: $15,000
🥈 Second Prize: $10,000
🥉 Third Prize: $5,000
🌟 Special Award (Best Regional Business Plan): $5,000
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What You’ll Gain
Successful applicants will benefit from:
Targeted training and coaching
One-on-one mentoring
Business development and management support
Networking and visibility opportunities
Access to funding partners and support institutions
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Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a single PDF file containing:
Updated CV
Valid ID
Business/activity profile
Simplified business plan or model
Financial projections
Legal documents (if applicable)
Any additional supporting documents
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How to Apply
Submit your application via email based on your country with the subject:
“EYWEP Program Application – Existing Businesses”
Full details
Apply through the link in the comment section 👇
Deadline
🗓 16 July 2026 (23:59 GMT)
⚠️ Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Additional Information
Participation is completely free
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
Designed to support entrepreneurs ready to scale and strengthen their businesses
📧 For inquiries: cdjs@ecowas.int
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