WIDU.africa is taking another step forward in its mission to strengthen entrepreneurship and job creation in Ethiopia: the launch of its first-ever #FashionCall in Ethiopia. Developed in collaboration with Sustainable Industrial Clusters (S.I.C. II), this thematic call focuses on empowering micro and small-sized enterprises in the fashion design sector.
Since its launch, WIDU.africa has been building bridges between local entrepreneurs and resources that can help them grow, innovate, and contribute to economic development. This new Local Call builds on that vision, targeting a dynamic sector with high potential for creativity, inclusion, and sustainable growth. The call for applications is open until September 17th to all targeted businesses.
A Tailored Opportunity for the Fashion Sector
The WIDU #FashionCall Ethiopia is designed for micro and small-sized enterprises producing creative fashion products locally, with categories spanning ready-to-wear and contemporary clothing, cultural and traditional wear, accessories, and bridal or occasion wear.
Through the programme, selected entrepreneurs will gain access to a combination of grants and tailored business coaching. This support aims to help them strengthen their operations, refine their strategies, and expand their market reach, ultimately contributing to job creation and economic resilience in Ethiopia’s fashion industry.
How The Support Works
The funding model follows WIDU’s proven approach for Local Calls: participating businesses invest a set amount of private capital (between 160,000 and 320,000 ETB) and receive a grant worth 2.5 times their investment, for a total grant between 400,000 and 800,000 ETB. The grant is disbursed in two phases: 90% upon approval and 10% after project completion, with three sessions of business coaching integrated throughout the process.
Unlike the Original WIDU Grant model, this call is 100% locally driven, meaning that no diaspora co-funding is required.
Encouraging Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
The call is open to Ethiopian-owned SMEs that:
- Have been operating for at least two years,
- Employ no more than 20 people,
- Operate in one of the defined fashion categories (ready-to-wear & contemporary fashion, cultural and traditional wear, accessories design, bridal and occasion wear).
WIDU.africa particularly encourages applications from businesses promoting sustainability, inclusive employment, gender equality, and support for disadvantaged communities.
In addition to funding, participants will receive personalized coaching to improve their business models, marketing strategies, and brand identity.
For more information about the funding process, eligible sectors and applications requirements, visit: https://widu.africa/fashion-call-ethiopia?mtm_campaign=Fashion-Local-Call-Ethiopia&mtm_kwd=Fashion%20Local%20Call
All fashion designers and entrepreneurs in this sector are invited to apply before September 17th on the following link: https://widu.africa/fashion-call-ethiopia?mtm_campaign=Fashion-Local-Call-Ethiopia&mtm_kwd=Fashion%20Local%20Call