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30 July
ace 06:41

A Unique Opportunity for Cape Verdean SMEs: International Funding to Boost Business

IFC SME Growth Accelerator 2026 presents a transformative opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa, with the potential to have a significant impact on Cape Verde’s business ecosystem. Organised by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, this programme aims to drive sustainable growth, innovation and competitiveness among promising businesses across the African continent, offering substantial financial resources and strategic support on a global scale.

The Impact of Funding on the Business Community

For business owners and entrepreneurs in Cape Verde, access to this initiative provides a practical platform for expanding their operations, entering new regional markets and strengthening their operational capacity. The programme offers investment of up to 1.5 million US dollars (USD) on a project basis.

In addition to direct financial support, the selected companies will have access to:

  • Specialised mentoring from international experts in the sector;
  • Tailored technical support for process optimisation;
  • Networks (networking) strategic relationships with global investors and business partners.

Why Cape Verde?

In an island context where strengthening the private sector is crucial for economic diversification and the creation of skilled jobs, participation in the IFC’s accelerator programme can boost key sectors across the archipelago. Sectors such as the blue economy, renewable energy, sustainable tourism, information technology and agrotechnology find in this fund the impetus they need to scale up their solutions.

To qualify, SMEs must demonstrate a viable business model, strong growth potential, financial viability and a clear socio-economic impact on the communities in which they operate. Priority is given to leaders committed to good governance practices and environmental sustainability.

Practical Information on Applying

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