The Women in Digital Business (WiDB)- Training of Entrepreneurs (ToE) Programme is a transformative initiative designed to empower women-led enterprises across Africa with the Digital skills, innovation mindset, and strategic tools needed to succeed in an increasingly digital economy. The programme helps participants move beyond basic digitalization to full digital transformation- leveraging technology to expand markets, enhance productivity, and drive sustainable business growth within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
Organized by: 1Million AfCFTA impact Hub
Powered by: PABL Solutions Ltd
In partnership with: International Training Centre of the ILO (ITCILO)
Through a blend of self-paced learning, expert mentorship, and practical guidance, participants gain confidence and technical capability to position their ventures competitively in Africa's evolving digital landscape.
Why This Programme Is Essential
Across Africa, countless women entrepreneurs continue to face significant digital and operational challenges that restrict business growth and visibility. These include limited online presence, inefficient communication systems, heavy reliance on manual processes, low access to affordable digital tools, and weak confidence in technology adoption. Such barriers not only hinder enterprise competitiveness but also slow down inclusive economic development on the continent.
The WiDB initiative seeks to bridge this digital divide—helping women-led businesses unlock their potential, reach new markets, and participate fully in Africa’s interconnected digital trade ecosystem.
Programme Goals
The WiDB Training of Entrepreneurs Programme aims to:- Enhance Digital Empowerment: Equip women entrepreneurs with essential digital skills to strengthen their brand visibility, communication strategies, and online sales.
- Foster Market Integration: Enable access to AfCFTA’s digital marketplace, connecting women-owned SMEs to cross-border trade opportunities.
- Boost Enterprise Competitiveness: Support the transition to data-driven, scalable business models that improve efficiency and profitability.
- Encourage Innovation & Sustainability: Inspire creative use of technology to build resilient, tech-enabled enterprises.
- Promote Inclusive Growth: Narrow the digital gender gap and ensure women benefit equitably from Africa’s digital transformation.
Expected Impact and Outcomes
By completing the programme, participants will:
- Establish a verified and consistent online business presence (Google, social media, digital marketplaces).
- Learn to run targeted digital advertising campaigns and apply SEO to enhance online visibility.
- Integrate efficient payment systems, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, and data analytics into daily operations.
- Develop a personalized Digital Transformation Roadmap to guide their long-term business growth.
- Record measurable improvements in sales, visibility, operational efficiency, and customer reach.
Programme Structure
Phase 1: WiDB Course (3 weeks) – Participants complete an intensive learning experience, design a customized Digital Work Plan, and receive a certificate from ITCILO.
Phase 2 (Optional): Access to ILO’s SIYB Modules (Start and Improve Your Business) for those seeking advanced entrepreneurial development.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Women in Digital Business (WiDB) Training of Entrepreneurs (ToE) Programme, applicants must satisfy the following requirements:a. Gender and Age: Must be a woman between 18 and 60 years old (born between December 10, 1964, and December 10, 2006).
b. Residency: Must be African and currently reside in one of the 55 member countries of the African Union.
c. Communication Access: Must possess a valid email address and an active WhatsApp account for official communication and training updates.
d. Digital Readiness: Must be computer literate and own a personal computer or smartphone with reliable internet access and consistent electricity supply to fully participate in the programme.
e. Business Registration: Must own a legally registered business within their country of residence.
f. Market Activity: The business must offer products or services already available in the market and show evidence of traction (such as customer base, sales history, or partnerships).
g. Language Proficiency: Must be fluent in English, as the training sessions, materials, and mentorship will be delivered primarily in English.
Desired Behaviour and Entrepreneurial Mindset
- Opportunity Recognition: Capacity to identify digital gaps or inefficiencies and transform them into viable business opportunities.
- Strategic Thinking: Skill in aligning digital tools and innovation with broader
business growth objectives.
- Tech Mobilization: Demonstrated initiative in using digital platforms and resources to scale business operations.
- Execution and Adaptation: Commitment to implementing, testing, and refining digital strategies for measurable impact and long-term sustainability.
Selection Process and Eligibility
The selection process includes:
Online application and needs assessment via Google Form.
Review and virtual interview for shortlisted applicants.
Only 20 participants will be admitted into the programme. Applications are reviewed continuously, and once all spots are filled, subsequent applicants will be placed on a waiting list.
If you are a woman entrepreneur ready to embrace digital transformation, enhance your competitiveness, and expand your reach within Africa’s growing digital economy, this opportunity is for you.
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