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Apply Now for the Archipelagos Program 2024 (Training, Mentoring, Networking, And Access to Capital For up to 1000+ SMEs in Africa)
Archipelagos is a multi-year international cooperation initiative spearheaded by Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), the Italian Financial Institution for International Development Cooperation, with backing from the European Commission.
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Its primary goal is to bolster the growth of African SMEs and facilitate their access to capital markets.
This call for applications seeks to select over 1000 SMEs from across Africa to participate in a specialized capacity-building program. The program is meticulously crafted to enhance the capabilities of SMEs and bolster their readiness for capital markets.
Program Objectives
1. Supporting African SME growth through the Archipelagos capacity-building program, offering tailored training, mentoring, and networking opportunities via a dedicated digital platform.
2. Facilitating SMEs’ access to capital markets by collaborating with local stock exchanges and providing a dedicated guarantee facility from the European Commission to structure innovative financial instruments.
3. Cultivating a more conducive ecosystem for SMEs by engaging in dialogue with local policymakers and institutions, as well as involving key stakeholders.
What We Offer
Capacity Building Program;
CDP and the European Commission acknowledge the significance of nurturing the growth and development of African SMEs. Consequently, CDP has devised a specialized capacity-building program aimed at enhancing SMEs’ industrial and operational capabilities, preparing them for capital market access.
The program, structured around training, mentoring, and networking, adopts a hybrid model, blending asynchronous and synchronous components for a comprehensive and interactive learning experience.
Via the Archipelagos digital platform, SMEs gain access to a vast array of online courses tailored to their specific needs and developmental stages. Additionally, webinars enrich the learning journey, fostering engagement and interaction.
Participating SMEs not only receive training but also benefit from dedicated support and access to a community of SMEs and investors, facilitating valuable business connections on an international scale.
Access to Capital Markets
The Archipelagos Program presents a unique opportunity for SMEs to secure the capital necessary for growth and scalability.
Upon completing the capacity-building program, SMEs demonstrating readiness and potential for fundraising in capital markets receive tailored support and guidance throughout the fundraising process.
Selected SMEs receive mentorship and coaching to effectively engage potential investors, including assistance in crafting compelling investment pitches.
Furthermore, SMEs are aided in structuring innovative debt instruments and securing funding at favorable terms, thanks to the first-loss financial guarantee facility from the European Commission, which attracts additional investors.
We Seek Participants Who
- Are committed to acquiring new skills and knowledge to foster business growth and enhance competitiveness.
- Desire guidance and support from seasoned professionals to navigate challenges and receive actionable advice to achieve objectives.
- Seek to forge connections with other businesses, sharing experiences, knowledge, and best practices for mutual growth and success.
- Are open to exploring collaborations and partnerships to advance business goals.
- Are eager to access debt capital to fuel growth, by connecting with a diverse range of potential investors and diversifying funding sources.
- Each selected SME receives platform access for up to three key personnel within the organization (e.g., founder, finance manager, strategy manager).
In addition to SMEs, the capacity-building platform welcomes young university graduates and entrepreneurs seeking to enrich their academic journey or strengthen entrepreneurial skills in preparation for the business world.
Deadline: 30th June 2024
To apply to the Archipelagos Program please fill in this survey
