The Her Africa Early Stage Incubator (HAESI), a flagship initiative of the Alliance for Women and Girls (AFWAG), has officially opened applications for its 2026 cohort.
The programme is a fully supported, Pan-African incubator designed to nurture young social entrepreneurs who are building solutions that promote gender justice and improve the lives of women and girls across Africa.
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Her Africa Early Stage Incubator (HAESI) 2026 Overview
HAESI is not just a conventional incubator. It is a leadership development and ecosystem-building programme created to equip early-stage founders with the mindset, skills, tools, and networks needed to grow strong, sustainable organisations.
The programme runs for six months and focuses on helping participants strengthen their leadership capacity, refine their organisational strategies, build resilient systems, and collaborate with peers across Africa. Participants learn in a supportive Pan-African community that values collaboration, impact, and community well-being.
Through this journey, founders are supported to tackle deep-rooted social and structural challenges affecting women and girls in their communities.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility Criteria)
Applications are open to individuals who meet the following conditions:
1. Social entrepreneurs under the age of 35 who are founders, co-founders, or in leadership positions in initiatives focused on gender justice in Africa.
2. Founders of organisations, ventures, or projects that have been operating for not more than three years, with clear or intended impact on women and girls.
3. Exceptional innovators at the idea or early concept stage are also encouraged to apply, as long as their work aligns with the programme’s mission.
Ventures may focus on areas such as:
- Education
- Health
- Gender equality
- Environmental sustainability
- Economic empowerment
- Poverty reduction (as they relate to women and girls)
What Participants Will Gain
1. Leadership and Personal Growth
Participants will strengthen key leadership skills such as self-awareness, strategic thinking, resilience, communication, and systems-level problem solving, enabling them to lead their organisations more effectively.
2. Stronger and More Sustainable Organisations
The programme supports participants in improving planning, strategy, financial confidence, and organisational structure, helping their initiatives become more stable and sustainable over time.
3. Greater Social Impact
Founders will refine their programmes and interventions to achieve clearer, measurable, and more meaningful impact for women and girls in their communities.
4. Mentorship, Networking, and Collaboration
Participants join a Pan-African network of peers, mentors, and experts, opening doors to partnerships with NGOs, government institutions, and private sector actors.
5. Long-Term Learning and Alumni Support
Even after completing the programme, participants continue to benefit from AFWAG’s learning resources, workshops, and alumni network, ensuring ongoing growth and support.
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How to Apply
Interested applicants should visit the Her Africa Early Stage Incubator (HAESI) official programme page to complete the online application or expression of interest form with accurate and detailed information about yourself and your initiative.
You are expected to carefully review the programme details and eligibility requirements. Submit your application before the stated deadline on the portal.
You can also visit the Dailylight Channel Grant for SMEs page and Job and Career Opportunities Desk to explore more opportunities you’re qualified to apply for.
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