FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SIE FUND LAUNCHES WINDOW 3 (STARTUP GRANT) FOR GAMBIAN YOUTH
Banjul, The Gambia – The Skills, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SIE) Fund, under the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), has announced a new Call for Proposals under its Startup Support Window. This initiative aims to empower young Gambian entrepreneurs by providing financial support, mentorship, and incubation services to turn innovative business ideas into thriving enterprises.
The Startup Support Window is part of the World Bank-funded Gambia Resilience, Inclusion, Skills, and Equity (RISE) Project, a five-year initiative designed to increase foundational skills, provide job-relevant training, and boost income-generating opportunities across The Gambia. Through this window, the SIE Fund will support 75 startups annually with grants ranging from $2,000 to $2,758 per startup, in addition to coaching, mentorship, and incubation services.
Who Can Apply
To qualify for funding, applicants must:
• Be Gambian citizens between the ages of 18 and 35
• Have a business formally registered with the Registrar of Companies in The Gambia
• Present an innovative business idea with strong growth potential
• Submit a comprehensive business plan with market research and financial projections
• Demonstrate commitment, capability, and operational readiness
Priority will be given to beneficiaries of Window 2 of the SIE Fund, who have previously participated in skills training or internship programmes.
Priority Sectors
The Fund is particularly interested in startups operating in sectors aligned with The Gambia’s Recovery Focused National Development Plan (2023–2027), including:
• Agriculture
• Engineering
• Tourism
• Business
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Creative and Performing Arts
What Support Is Offered
Successful applicants will receive:
• Financial Support: Competitive grants for product development, marketing, equipment acquisition, and operational costs
• Technical Assistance: Mentorship and coaching from experienced business advisors and industry experts
• Incubation Services: Access to co-working spaces, infrastructure, and networking opportunities
Application Process
The application process involves multiple stages:
1. Submission of a detailed business proposal
2. Evaluation and shortlisting
3. Pitching event where shortlisted applicants present their ideas to a panel of judges
4. Notification and award of grants
The SIE Fund Secretariat will also organise online engagement workshops to help aspiring entrepreneurs develop business plans, manage finances, and improve pitching techniques.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the SIE Fund application portal at https://sief.moherst.gov.gm/grants to access the official application form, guidelines, and detailed eligibility criteria. All proposals must be submitted online and include a schedule of activities and a detailed implementation budget.
Important Notes
• Proposals that do not comply with the terms of this call will be disregarded
• The SIE Fund may request adjustments or additional clarifications; failure to respond within five working days will result in elimination
• All applicants are subject to the control and auditing mechanisms of the SIE Fund
Grievance Mechanism
Beneficiaries and affected parties have the right to complain openly, transparently, and without reprisal. Complaints can be submitted via:
• Toll-free line: 1229
• Complaints book at the SIE Fund Secretariat
• Email: siefmoherst@gmail.com
• Letter addressed to the SIE Fund Secretariat, MoHERST
For Further Information
Please contact the SIE Fund Secretariat at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, or visit the official application portal at https://sief.moherst.gov.gm/grants
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