About

Provides non-repayable grants and soft/repayable loans to women-owned or women-led SMEs and financial institutions operating in Benin and Burkina Faso. The programme targets climate-smart agriculture and climate-friendly business models that enhance economic opportunities for women.

Eligibility

• Be a local private sector company or financial institution operating or intending to operate in Benin and/or Burkina Faso.
• Private sector companies must be at least 51% owned by women OR have majority female management and majority female representation among employees, suppliers, or distributors.
• Have been in business for at least two (2) full financial years at the time of application.
• Demonstrate clear integration of climate change mitigation or adaptation into their product or service offering.
• Be able to demonstrate a commitment to match the AECF contribution based on specified ratios.
• Be legally registered and physically located in Benin and/or Burkina Faso at the time of contract signature.

How to apply

• Submit a funding application justifying the need for the business and/or idea to be funded, the requested amount, and project duration.