Entrepreneur Support Organisations (ESOs) across Africa have a fresh opportunity to boost their impact, as GrowthAfrica announces the launch of its 2026 ESO Uplift Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen organisations that support startups tackling pressing social and economic challenges.
- Entrepreneur Support Organisations (ESOs) across Africa have a fresh opportunity to boost their impact, as GrowthAfrica announces the launch of...
- The programme, now open for applications, targets ESOs operating in countries including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Ghana, and Egypt.
- Selected participants will gain access to proven methodologies for programme design, operational efficiency, and ecosystem engagement. The initiative also emphasises strengthening...
- This blended approach ensures organisations can apply new insights directly to their operations while receiving guidance from experienced ecosystem builders.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on African incubator support — everything you need to know is covered below.
The programme, now open for applications, targets ESOs operating in countries including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Ghana, and Egypt. It forms part of the broader Social and Impact Entrepreneurship (SIE) Project, co-funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and delivered in collaboration with the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation and The Amahoro Coalition.
Building Stronger Entrepreneur Support Systems
At its core, the ESO Uplift Programme is designed to equip organisations with practical tools, systems, and strategies to support startups better and scale their impact. Selected participants will gain access to proven methodologies for programme design, operational efficiency, and ecosystem engagement.
The initiative also emphasises strengthening internal systems and improving how ESOs attract, support, and scale high-impact ventures. By enhancing organisational capacity, the programme aims to create a ripple effect across Africa’s entrepreneurship landscape.
Structured Learning and Hands-On Support
The programme follows a structured roadmap combining virtual workshops, one-on-one advisory sessions, and peer learning opportunities. Participants will engage in intensive sessions focused on redesigning their support programmes, followed by ongoing mentorship and implementation support.
In addition to technical training, ESOs will benefit from access to curated resources, collaborative networks, and continuous feedback mechanisms. This blended approach ensures organisations can apply new insights directly to their operations while receiving guidance from experienced ecosystem builders.
Focus on Sustainability and Impact
A key pillar of the programme is helping ESOs achieve long-term sustainability. Participants will receive guidance on fundraising strategies, revenue generation, and impact measurement, which are critical components for organisations seeking to scale and attract partners.
The programme also supports storytelling and communication, enabling ESOs to showcase their results better and strengthen their visibility within the global development and investment ecosystem.
Who Can Apply
Eligible organisations must be legally registered and have at least two years of experience supporting startups through incubation, acceleration, mentorship, or training. They must also demonstrate measurable impact in addressing social, environmental, or economic challenges.
Senior leadership participation is required throughout the programme to ensure that insights gained are effectively integrated into organisational strategy and operations.
Driving Africa’s Innovation Future
Founded in 2002, GrowthAfrica has supported hundreds of ventures and facilitated millions in funding, positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s innovation ecosystem.
With the 2026 ESO Uplift Programme, the organisation aims to deepen its impact by empowering those who support entrepreneurs, recognising that strong ESOs are essential to building scalable, sustainable businesses across the continent.
Applications are open for a limited time, and interested organisations are encouraged to apply before the late May 31 deadline.