Applications are now open for the Women in Fashion Tech (WIFT) Accelerator 2026, a six-week programme designed to support women-led, youth-led, and disability-inclusive fashion businesses across Africa.
The programme focuses on helping fashion SMEs improve production capacity, adopt digital tools, and access regional and global markets.
About the Programme
The WIFT Accelerator is built to help fashion entrepreneurs move beyond small-scale production into structured, scalable, and export-ready businesses.
Many fashion businesses in Africa face challenges such as limited digital adoption, weak systems, and restricted access to funding and cross-border trade. This programme is designed to address these gaps through training, mentorship, and strategic support.
Why This Matters
Fashion SMEs play a key role in Africa’s economy, especially in job creation and women’s empowerment. Strengthening these businesses can drive industrial growth and open up opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a market of over 1.4 billion people.
Programme Focus Areas
Participants will be trained across key areas, including:
- Mass garment production systems
- Digital transformation and trade opportunities
- Investment readiness
- Export readiness and market access
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, businesses must:
- Be registered fashion SMEs operating in Africa
- Have been in operation for 2–3 years with existing revenue
- Show clear growth potential and market focus
Eligible businesses include:
- Women-owned fashion brands
- Youth-led enterprises
- Businesses supporting persons with disabilities
- Companies in garment production, textiles, sustainable fashion, and fashion technology
Programme Structure
The programme runs for six weeks using a hybrid format (online and in-person sessions in Lagos).
Participants will benefit from:
- Expert-led training and mentorship
- Coaching sessions and self-paced learning
- Factory tours and production simulations
- Investor pitch opportunities (Demo Day)
- Exposure to buyers and export markets
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the programme, participants will:
- Improve production and operational systems
- Adopt digital tools for efficiency
- Become investment-ready
- Access regional and international markets
How to Apply
Interested applicants can apply via the official form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScu90nXL3DSKgMbpq698-owW2V6kcyNeMM9U-EMoTxNVGG5eQ/viewform?usp=dialog
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