UNDP’s message is clear: when women lead, economies grow.
On April 1, 2025, UNDP Malawi, with support from the German Development Cooperation through the German Development Bank (KfW) and the Royal Norwegian Embassy, joined partners in launching a bold new chapter for inclusive economic development with the launch of the Growth Accelerator (GA) Cohort 10, dedicated exclusively to women in entrepreneurship.
Held in Lilongwe, the double launch of GA Cohorts 9 (Digital Entrepreneurship) and 10 (Women in Entrepreneurship) was a powerful display of innovation, ambition, and partnership, placing women and technology at the heart of Malawi’s transformation journey.
Cohort 10 was launched under the theme “Women in Entrepreneurship: Accelerating Women-Owned Sustainable Investments Through Cross-Sector Innovations.”
In line with the UNDP Country Office Gender Equality Strategy, a key thematic priority area is enhancing economic empowerment through private sector engagement on gender equality. This dedicated cohort is designed to dismantle the barriers that have long hindered women’s access to entrepreneurial resources, funding, and business development support. It serves as a practical response to the gendered financing gap, reaffirming UNDP’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive growth.
“Women’s participation in entrepreneurship is vital not only for achieving gender equality but also for fostering economic resilience. This cohort is designed to support women-led businesses across critical sectors of the economy. By empowering women entrepreneurs, we are fostering inclusivity and strengthening the backbone of our society," said UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Fenella Frost during her keynote address at the launch.
Caption: UNDP Country Rep Fenella Frost speaks during the launch
She stressed the strategic importance of such investments, noting: “Small and Medium Enterprises face a series of challenges, such as high borrowing costs. We hope that the accelerator provides a low-cost financing option to propel business growth.”
Speaking at the launch, German Ambassador to Malawi Ms. Ute König highlighted the financial support available through the programme, in alignment with Malawi’s long-term development agenda, Malawi 2063.
“So, through the accelerator, successful entrepreneurs will get a good package of training, of mentorship, and they will be able to also get finance. They can get up to $ 40,000 as grants if their business idea succeeds," she said.
Caption: German Ambassador to Malawi Ms. Ute König delivers her keynote address
Launched in 2018 as a partnership between UNDP and the Royal Norwegian Embassy, the programme offers this financing with support from the German Development Bank (KfW). Since then, the Growth Accelerator has supported over 97 entrepreneurs across eight cohorts, creating more than 761 jobs and reaching over 54,000 people along key value chains.
Cohort 10 supports women-led businesses that are post-revenue and poised for scale. Through a blend of six-month business advisory services, tailored mentorship, and access to co-financing of up to USD 40,000, the programme nurtures ventures with the potential to contribute to Malawi’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and societal transformation.
At least 50% of the business ownership must be held by a woman or women, and the businesses must demonstrate innovation and a capacity for impact across various sectors, including agribusiness, digital innovation, energy, education, and healthcare.
This year’s event also celebrated the voices and impact of previous GA beneficiaries. The audience heard from Rachel Kumwenda, founder of Drone Link, who underscored how earlier GA cohorts had unlocked both investor confidence and growth potential for her venture.
"Before GA, I had the dream but not the wings. Today, I fly drones for a living—and employ other young women to do the same," said Rachel, drawing a standing ovation.
Also present during the launch was the United Nations Women Representative for Malawi, Letty Chawara, reinforcing the collective commitment of the UN family to advancing gender equality through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Support: Up to USD 40,000 in co-financing, 6 months of advisory and mentorship
Sectors: Open to all; focus on SDG-aligned impact
Partners: Landell Mills, Imani Development, University Innovation Pod (UNIPOD), Renew Capital, German Development Cooperation (KfW), Royal Norwegian Embassy
UNDP’s message is clear: when women lead, economies grow. Through Cohort 10, Malawi takes a vital step toward a future that is not only inclusive but truly transformative.