Her Africa Early Stage Incubator: Empowering Social Entrepreneurs for Women and Girls in Africa

Introduction

The Her Africa Early Stage Incubator (HAESI) program is a groundbreaking initiative launched by the Alliance for Women and Girls (AFWAG) with the mission to empower early-stage social entrepreneurs across Africa. This program is tailored for founders of organizations and initiatives dedicated to supporting women and girls on the continent, offering them the tools, resources, and networks needed to amplify their impact and drive sustainable social change.

Enhanced Leadership and Management Skills

Participants in the HAESI program will develop crucial leadership and management skills. This includes improved self-awareness, resilience, communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities—key competencies that will enable them to lead their organizations more effectively.

Increased Organisational Growth and Sustainability

Through targeted training and support, the HAESI program will help participating organizations achieve greater operational efficiency, refine their strategic planning, enhance financial management, and access new funding and resources. These improvements will drive organizational growth and sustainability, ensuring that participants can continue their important work for years to come.

Enhanced Social Impact

Participants will be equipped to achieve measurable improvements in their organizations' outcomes, directly benefiting the women and girls in their communities. By applying the skills and knowledge gained through the HAESI program, these leaders will enhance their social impact, creating meaningful change across Africa.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

One of the program's key benefits is the opportunity for participants to connect with experienced faculty members, experts, and fellows who can provide mentorship and strategic advice. In addition, participants will have the chance to form partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and private sector organizations, broadening their networks and expanding their influence.

Continuous Learning and Improvement

The HAESI program emphasizes continuous learning, with participants gaining ongoing access to AFWAG’s resources and alumni network. This ensures that they can continue to pursue personal and professional growth even after the program concludes.

Tailored Support for Gender Equality Initiatives

The HAESI program provides personalized coaching and peer-learning workshops designed to enhance leadership and organizational effectiveness. These sessions will equip participants with the skills needed to navigate social challenges, build strategic partnerships, secure funding, and achieve sustainable impact in their gender equality initiatives.

Networking Opportunities

Participants will also benefit from networking opportunities that connect them with key stakeholders in the NGO sector, government agencies, and private industry. These connections will be crucial in helping them to scale their initiatives and reach broader audiences.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Should Apply?

The HAESI program is open to social entrepreneurs under the age of 35 who have founded an organization or social project that is no more than three years old and is based in an African country. These organizations or ideas must be focused on addressing critical social issues affecting women and girls, such as education, health, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation. Exceptional social entrepreneurs at the ideation stage are also encouraged to apply, provided their projects align with the program’s objectives.