Applications for Archipelagos, a multi-year international collaboration programme designed to boost African SMEs’ growth and ease their access to financial markets, are now being accepted from African startups.
With the help of the European Commission, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), an Italian financial institution for international development cooperation, created Archipelagos, which will give up to 1,000 SMEs from all across the continent access to a specific capacity-building programme.
The program’s three main components are networking, mentorship, and training. It is provided using a hybrid model that combines synchronous and asynchronous elements to provide a thorough and engaging learning environment.
SMEs will have access to a broad learning repertoire of online courses via the Archipelagos digital platform, with customised learning pathways based on their unique requirements and developmental stage.
In addition to the asynchronous element, webinars will add to the learning process’s stimulation, engagement, and interactivity.
SMEs taking part in the project will not only receive training but also specialised support and access to a network of investors and other SMEs, giving them the chance to network and forge important commercial relationships on a global scale.
SMEs who show that they are prepared and have the potential to raise funds in the capital markets at the conclusion of the capacity development programme will receive specialised support and be assisted in the fundraising process.
Their ability to recruit additional investors will be facilitated by the European Commission’s first-loss financial guarantee programme, which will help them structure creative loan instruments and receive funding at favourable rates.
The deadline for applications is June 30.
Visit the website to apply or to learn more.
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