Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Zimbabwe 2025

The U.S. Mission to Zimbabwe has announced a funding opportunity for the 2025 Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program under opportunity number AF-HAR-FY25-02. This initiative supports women entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe by equipping them with the skills, capabilities, and resources necessary to excel in the private sector. The program combines in-person and virtual sessions featuring established Zimbabwean and U.S. entrepreneurs, alumni of U.S.-funded exchange programs, and experts in various fields. It also integrates the interactive online DreamBuilder course and may include elements from the Najafi 100 Million Learners Global Initiative to foster entrepreneurship and innovation. Eligible organizations include non-profit entities, such as civil society groups, business development organizations, and U.S. government alumni associations. For-profit or commercial entities are not eligible. Applicants must possess a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active registration in SAM.gov, with experienced staff and adequate resources to implement the program. Applications are encouraged to incorporate sustainability measures, business partnerships, and a strong American component, such as guest U.S. experts, to enhance competitiveness. The program objectives are to increase understanding of business planning, financial forecasting, marketing, and scaling operations; connect participants with U.S.-based business models and experts; foster peer-to-peer mentorship networks; and equip participants with skills to build sustainable enterprises. Proposals should outline strategies for recruiting underrepresented populations and must detail plans for alumni engagement, monitoring and evaluation, and program sustainability. Priority will be given to proposals incorporating creative elements like pitch competitions, networking events, and seed funding. Funding for this program ranges from $10,000 to $35,000, with a performance period of up to 12 months. Proposals must include a detailed budget narrative justifying all line items, including personnel, travel, lodging, supplies, and other program costs. Alcoholic beverages and funds to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) are strictly prohibited. Cost-sharing contributions are encouraged but not required. Applications are due by January 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM Central African Time. Proposals must be submitted via email to PublicDiplomacyGrants-Zim@state.gov, and all required forms, including SF-424 series documents, must be completed. Notifications of awards will be issued by February 28, 2025, and payment requests will be processed using form SF-270. This funding opportunity provides a unique chance to empower women entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe while strengthening U.S.-Zimbabwe ties. Organizations interested in applying should carefully review the program's goals and requirements to ensure alignment and competitiveness. For further assistance, applicants can contact the program administrator at PublicDiplomacyGrants-Zim@state.gov.