AWEC Cohort 9: Empowering Africa’s Female Business Leaders to Scale and Succeed
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The African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative (AWEC) has opened the doors for Cohort 9, inviting ambitious women founders from across Africa and the diaspora to join a powerful network of entrepreneurs transforming businesses and economies. But what exactly is AWEC, who should apply, and what can participants expect from this life-changing experience?
Let’s dive in.
What Is AWEC?
AWEC is a pan-African entrepreneurial development program designed to accelerate the leadership and business management skills of women entrepreneurs through a 12-month, innovative blended learning experience. It combines high-quality curriculum, mentorship, peer collaboration, and practical business applications to help women grow thriving enterprises.
Rather than traditional classroom training, AWEC uses technology-enabled digital learning — with webinars, assignments, team projects and mentor matches that are accessible from anywhere with internet connectivity. Its goal is not just to teach — but to create immediate business impact and cultivate a supportive cooperative of visionary leaders.
Why AWEC Matters
Women entrepreneurs in Africa face systemic barriers from limited access to quality business learning to restricted networks and capital access. AWEC confronts these challenges head-on by offering:
🔹 World-Class Business and Leadership Training
Delivered by top practitioners and global experts, participants learn practical skills in strategy, finance, marketing and operations knowledge they can apply instantly in their businesses.
Every AWEC Fellow is paired with a seasoned business leader who provides personalized guidance and accountability throughout the year.
🔹 A Thriving Pan-African Network
Fellows join an engaged community of over 1,400 women from 53 countries, all supporting each other with shared insights, collaborations and growth opportunities beyond the program year.
🔹 Alumnae Engagement and Ongoing Growth
Graduates don’t leave the learning behind, they join the AWEC Alumnae Network with continuous masterclasses, leadership initiatives and opportunities to give back and train others.
Who Should Apply for AWEC Cohort 9?
AWEC Cohort 9 is tailored for women entrepreneurs who are ready to lead and scale. Specifically, ideal candidates are:
✅ Founders of existing businesses — enterprises that have been operating for at least 2 years with at least 2 employees (full- or part-time).
✅ African citizens, whether residing on the continent or abroad — with diaspora-based businesses that have clear impact on Africa through customers or delivery of goods/services.
✅ Comfortable with digital collaboration, including remote teamwork and online tools.
✅ Proficient in English, as the program is conducted in English.
✅ Committed to a year-long journey, dedicating 4–6 hours per week to learning and engagement.
Please note: AwEC does not accept nonprofit founders in the core program, but social enterprise founders are encouraged to apply.
What You’ll Gain
Participating in AWEC is not just professional development — it’s a transformation. As a Cohort 9 Fellow, you will:
🌟 Strengthen strategic and financial leadership skills that help you scale your business faster.
🌟 Expand your professional network across industries, markets, and borders.
🌟 Develop confidence, resilience and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
🌟 Access mentorship and peer support that often continues long after the program ends.
🌟 Join a lifelong community of extraordinary women building Africa’s future.
How and When to Apply
Applications for AWEC Cohort 9 open from January 19 to February 2, 2026. The application process is competitive (with only ~200 seats each year) so it’s essential to prepare early and present your strongest entrepreneurial story.
✨ Are you ready to transform your business and become part of a dynamic network shaping Africa’s future?
Applications for AWEC Cohort 9 are now open — don’t miss your chance.
Hurry up and apply using the link below 👇🏼
African Women Entrepreneurship Corporative
You might also be interested in GrowHer Accelerator Program 2nd COHORT by Smedan
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