The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), through its Creating Opportunities for Youth and Women in Africa (COYWA) initiative, has officially opened applications for the 2026 entrepreneurship and skills development programme for young entrepreneurs and women across the ECOWAS region.
The programme is designed to support innovative young Africans with practical business training, entrepreneurial development, digital skills, and mentorship opportunities that can help strengthen sustainable businesses and create economic impact within their communities.
COYWA is being implemented by the Centre for Dialogue, Humanitarian, Social and Sustainable Development Studies (CDJS) in collaboration with the ECOWAS Youth and Sport Development Centre (EYSDC), AUDA-NEPAD, and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID).
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Overview of ECOWAS COYWA 2026 Entrepreneurship and Skills Training Programme
According to the organisers, the initiative focuses on identifying young entrepreneurs and women with promising business ideas and growth potential.
The programme aims to equip participants with practical entrepreneurial knowledge that can help them:
- Build sustainable businesses
- Improve business management skills
- Expand market opportunities
- Strengthen digital and financial literacy
- Create social and economic impact within their communities
The organisers explained that the new application round follows the successful completion of the first cohort, which reportedly produced outstanding results across participating African countries.
Impact Recorded from the First COYWA Cohort
The organisers revealed that the first edition of the programme recorded impressive achievements among participants.
According to official records:
1. 47 young entrepreneurs from 25 African countries participated
2. Training was delivered through a hybrid learning system
3. Participants received training in:
- Financial education
- Digital literacy
- BrandingDigital marketing
4. The cohort recorded a 99% success rate
5. 15 participants graduated with distinctions and are now positioned to serve as mentor-facilitators in future programme stages
These achievements encouraged AUDA-NEPAD and AECID to support the expansion of the programme through the launch of Cohort 2.
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What to Expect in ECOWAS COYWA 2026 Entrepreneurship and Skills Training Cohort 2 Programme
For the 2026 edition, the organisers introduced a new sub-regional training structure that combines online and physical learning sessions.
Selected participants will undergo:
- Four weeks of virtual entrepreneurial training
- Five days of intensive physical training sessions
The first physical session for Cohort 2 is expected to hold in: Praia, Cabo Verde Business Lab, University of Cabo Verde
The programme will accommodate:
- 75 participants from ECOWAS member state Including 25 participants from Cabo Verde as the host country
Areas of Training and Learning
The training curriculum has been designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen both business knowledge and practical growth strategies.
Participants will receive training in:
- Entrepreneurship development
- Innovation and business growth
- Financial literacy
- Branding and digital marketing
- Digital and business skills
- Sustainable business strategies
The programme also aims to improve regional collaboration among young African entrepreneurs through networking and mentorship opportunities.
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Who Can Apply?
Applications are currently open to:
- Young entrepreneurs
- Women entrepreneurs
- Applicants from ECOWAS member countries
Candidates with innovative business ideas, existing startups, or growing ventures are encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submission of applications is May 15, 2026. Late applications may not be considered after the closing date.
How to Apply for ECOWAS COYWA 2026 Entrepreneurship and Skills Training Programme
Interested applicants should complete their submissions through the official ECOWAS COYWA 2026 Entrepreneurship and Skills Training Programme application portal before the deadline.
Step 1: Visit the Official ECOWAS COYWA 2026 Entrepreneurship and Skills Training Programme Application Portal
Apply through the official ECOWAS COYWA 2026 Entrepreneurship and Skills Training Programme website
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Provide accurate personal, business, and entrepreneurial information as required.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Carefully review your details before final submission.
Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues before the portal closes.
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Final Note for all Applicants
The ECOWAS COYWA 2026 Programme presents a valuable opportunity for young entrepreneurs and women across West Africa to gain practical entrepreneurial training, mentorship, and regional exposure.
Interested applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the programme to strengthen their business ideas, improve their skills, and connect with a growing network of African entrepreneurs.
You can also check out more opportunities you are eligible to apply for on the Federal Government Initiative Category, Latest Grant Collection Category, and Job and Career Opportunity Desk.
