WIDU.africa in Mali is a project by German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Gmbh, and co-financed by the European Union.
By providing grants and technical support, WIDU.africa aims to optimize diaspora remittances into a co-financing model to fund micro and small enterprises (MSEs), particularly for women-led and youth-led businesses in three cities in Mali: Bamako, Kayes & Sikasso.
WIDU.africa combines a Grant, diaspora contribution, and locally provided coaching-based support to enable local formal and informal businesses to grow and expand. The aim is to create jobs, promote income development, facilitate access to finance and provide technical support for supported entrepreneurs in Mali.
Our Funding Programmes for Entrepreneurs in Bamako, Kayes & Sikasso
If you are a member of the Malian diaspora and live in the EU, in Switzerland or in Norway get to know our funding programme “Original WIDU Grant” and discover how you can support businesses you know in Bamako, Kayes & Sikasso.
If you are a Malian entrepreneur with a vision to start a business or grow your existing business to create long-lasting impact, WIDU.africa might be your solution:
- Reach out to your friends or family members living in Europe to find out whether they want to support your business by participating together in our Original WIDU Grant programme.
- OR: Visit our website on a regular basis to learn whether we are currently offering Local Calls for entrepreneurs in Mali.
Our Original WIDU Grant
Together with WIDU, Malians 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.
An entrepreneur in Mali with a business in Bamako, Kayes or Sikasso sponsored by a friend or relative, 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.
Businesses from any sector of activity are welcome to apply for our Original WIDU Grant. WIDU.africa also strongly encourages initiatives in the green, circular and low carbon initiatives.
Our Local Calls
WIDU.africa will also offer Local Calls in Mali. Local Calls are time-limited funding programs specifically designed to support targeted groups of entrepreneurs. In the past, WIDU has used this approach to promote businesses in selected economic sectors (e.g., fashion design) or to focus on women-led enterprises.
Local Calls allow entrepreneurs to apply independently—without the need for support from a diaspora partner in Europe. The Grant amount is calculated based on the entrepreneur’s private investment and is typically more than doubled (amount private investment × 2.5 = Local Call Grant amount).
New Local Calls will be announced on the WIDU website as well as on the project’s social media channels.
Our Coaching Organisations In Mali
Every selected Malian entrepreneur receives tailored on-site coaching on business planning, marketing, and financial management as well as support to use and access the WIDU platform. These sessions are critical to helping you succeed and sustain your business long-term.
Coaching will be provided by local coaching organsiations who will be trained and supported by the project. Keep your eyes on local media and our facebook pages for the call for tenders for this opportunity.