I&P Acceleration WE4A Programme

The I&P Acceleration WE4A Programme is part of the Investing in Young Businesses in Africa – Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (IYBA WE4A) initiative. Implemented by GIZ and led by Investisseurs & Partenaires (I&P), the programme supports women-led businesses in green and transition sectors across Africa.

To strengthen the growth, resilience, and financing access of early-stage women-led SMEs, particularly in environmentally sustainable sectors.

Programme Structure

The programme addresses key barriers through three targeted tracks:

• Track 1: Investment Readiness
  Supports early-stage businesses to formalise operations and prepare for funding. 
• Track 2: Access to Debt
  Facilitates access to loans (~€22,000) through guarantees and technical support. 
• Track 3: Access to Capital
  Provides zero-interest financing (~€52,000) and technical assistance to scale businesses and prepare for equity investment. 

Key Details

• Duration: 2025–2027 (21 months) 
• Budget: €3.5 million 
• Countries: Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Uganda 
• Target: 140 women-led SMEs 

Focus Sectors

• Renewable Energy 
• Sustainable Agriculture 
• Circular Economy & Waste Management 
• Ecotourism 
• Aquaculture 
• Transition sectors (e.g. transport, construction with green criteria) 

Impact

• Addresses a €15 billion SME financing gap in Africa 
• Supports job creation and green transformation 
• Promotes women’s economic empowerment 

Key Challenge Addressed

Women entrepreneurs face limited access to finance, networks, and investment opportunities—receiving less than 10% of commercial loans despite strong participation in business.