WIDU.africa in The Gambia is a project co-financed by the European Union and implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Since its launch in The Gambia in 2026, the programme aims to optimize diaspora remittances into a co-financing model to fund micro and small entreprises (MSEs) owned by low-income entrepreneurs, particularly for women-led and youth-led businesses.
WIDU.africa combines diaspora contribution, coaching-based support and financial instrument to enable local formal and informal businesses to grow and expand, which leads to job creation, income development, access to finance for supported entrepreneur, economic resilience, and women economic autonomy.
Together with WIDU, Gambians living in one of the 27 member states of the European Union, in Switzerland or in Norway, can support their friends or family in their entrepreneurial activities through an innovative and digital approach. In concrete terms, each entrepreneur in The Gambia sponsored by a friend or relative living in one of the 27 member states of the EU, in Switzerland or in Norway, can obtain a grant from WIDU of up to EUR 3,000 for their first application and up to EUR 5,000 for the 2nd and 3rd rounds. Additionally to financial support, entrepreneurs benefit from 3 personalized coaching sessions.
How To Participate In WIDU?
WIDU The Gambia offers different programs to support local new and existing micro and small entreprises. While businesses from any sector of activity are welcome to apply, WIDU.africa applies a focus on initiatives in the green, circular and low carbon initatives.
If you’re an entrepreneur with a vision to grow your business and create long-lasting impact, you can directly submit your application through this website!
Our Coaching Organizations in Gambia
Every Gambian entrepreneur receives tailored coaching on business planning, marketing, and financial management. These sessions are critical to helping you succeed and sustain your business long-term.
In The Gambia, we are currently working towards closing a partnership with a local coaching organisation.
Updates in The Gambia
WIDU The Gambia regularly takes part in diaspora and entrepreneurial events to strengthen its position as a key player in the ecosystem