New Grants Target Women Who Missed GROW Loans

What the report says

Government has introduced a new grant programme for women entrepreneurs who were unable to secure financing through the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) project, according to Nile Post. The scheme is designed to reach women-led micro and small businesses that missed the earlier loan option because of issues such as strict banking requirements, limited credit access and other financial constraints.

The grants will be managed by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development with support from the World Bank. Nile Post reported that eligible businesses can receive non-repayable funding ranging from Shs3.5 million to Shs107 million. Officials said the government aims to back at least 2,626 women-owned enterprises nationwide, including 767 in refugee-hosting districts.

Speaking at a regional orientation meeting for local government leaders, State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Dr Mercy Lakisa Faith said the goal is to widen participation and give more eligible women a fair opportunity to grow their enterprises. Priority areas include STEM-related work, green and climate-resilient businesses, agribusiness processing, health technology and childcare services. The minister also urged district leaders to share accurate information and warned applicants not to pay brokers or officials, noting that applications will be made free of charge through the GROW Project website and mobile app.

Local officials cited reasons many women missed the loans, including low awareness of the programme, difficulty meeting bank conditions and lack of collateral in women’s names. The grants are expected to run for nine to 12 months, with projects scheduled for completion by June 2027.