SACREEE 2026 Capacity-Building Programme for Women Energy Entrepreneurs

Women in the energy sector across Southern Africa have a new chance to grow their businesses. The SACREEE 2026 Capacity-Building Programme for Women Energy Entrepreneurs opens applications today. This six-month online program helps women leaders build skills to expand their energy companies.

Program Overview

The SACREEE 2026 Capacity-Building Programme for Women Energy Entrepreneurs comes from the Global Women’s Network for the Energy Transition (GWNET). It partners with the SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE). The Austrian Development Agency (ADA) provides funding through its International Partnership Austria unit.

This initiative targets women who own energy-related businesses in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. It focuses on soft skills training, such as business management and leadership. Participants learn from expert mentors and industry leaders to strengthen their companies.

The program runs for six months with about eight hours of virtual sessions each month. It covers areas like solar thermal, energy efficiency, and productive use of energy. Women in these fields get priority.

Who Can Apply

This program serves women entrepreneurs from SADC countries. Applicants must identify as women and hold SADC nationality. They need to commit to the full schedule of online activities.

Business owners in energy sectors qualify best. The focus stays on sustainable energy solutions. No technical training happens here, just business skills to help companies grow.

The program does not give direct funding. Instead, it connects participants with funders and investors through matchmaking events.

What the Program Offers

Over six months, women gain tools to advance their businesses. Training includes sessions on leadership, networking, and strategy. Mentors from the energy industry share real-world advice.

Virtual meetings keep it flexible for busy entrepreneurs. Each month brings around eight hours of content. This setup lets participants balance work and learning.

Preferential spots go to those in solar thermal, energy efficiency, or productive energy use. The goal is to boost women-led firms that support clean energy in SADC.

Application Details

Applications close on April 3, 2026. Interested women should check the official SACREEE webpage for the full call. Prepare details about your business and energy focus.

Submit early to avoid last-minute issues. The site explains all steps clearly. Only complete applications from eligible women move forward.

Benefits for Participants

Joining builds strong networks across SADC. Mentors open doors to new partners and clients. Skills learned help scale businesses without needing tech upgrades.

Many past participants report better funding access after matchmaking. This program equips women to lead in renewable energy. It supports the shift to sustainable power in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply to the SACREEE 2026 program?

Women entrepreneurs from SADC countries who own energy-related businesses qualify, especially those in sustainable energy solutions.

What does the program cover?

It provides training in business management, leadership, networking, and strategy through virtual sessions and mentorship.

How long is the program and what’s the time commitment?

The program lasts six months with around eight hours of virtual sessions each month, making it flexible for busy entrepreneurs.

When is the application deadline?

Applications close on April 3, 2026; submit early via the official SACREEE webpage with your business details.