Deadline: 19-Dec-2025

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking qualified organizations to support the Empowering Women-led MSMEs in Niger (EWASME) initiative. The selected service provider will deliver capacity-building interventions to strengthen women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. Eligible NGOs and CSOs must demonstrate relevant experience, local presence, and the ability to implement results-oriented support within a 12-month timeframe and a budget of up to USD 100,000.

UNDP is inviting applications from qualified organizations to implement capacity-building activities that enhance the skills, resilience, and sustainability of women-led MSMEs in Niger. The initiative aims to promote inclusive economic growth by equipping women entrepreneurs with practical tools, training, and business development support.

Programme Objective

• Strengthen capacities of women-led MSMEs in Niger

• Provide practical, context-driven interventions in partnership with UNDP and financial institutions

• Improve entrepreneurial skills, business sustainability, and market readiness

• Foster inclusive economic empowerment for women entrepreneurs

• Support long-term growth through a 12-month technical assistance program

Key Components of the EWASME Initiative

Capacity-Building Interventions

Organizations will deliver training and direct support tailored to the needs of women-led MSMEs, including:

• Business development services

• Financial literacy and access to finance

• Enterprise management and sustainability planning

• Technical skills aligned with market opportunities

Collaborative Approach

The selected provider will work closely with:

• UNDP

• Partner financial institutions

• The Business Development Service (BDS) network
  Methods will be refined jointly with UNDP to ensure alignment with expected results.

Budget and Duration

• Maximum proposal budget: USD 100,000

• Implementation period: 12 months from contract signature

• Activities must demonstrate cost-effective, results-driven outcomes

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible entities include:

• NGOs, national bodies, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

• Organizations with at least 3 years of experience delivering similar projects

• Entities with recognition or agreement from the supervising Ministry

• Applicants with operational offices, staff, and resources in target regions

• Organizations with a valid bank account in the organization’s name

• Entities not linked to terrorism, money laundering, or activities contrary to UN values

Mandatory Documentation & Requirements

Applicants must provide:

• A detailed methodology describing implementation strategies

• Technical references (minimum of three) from previous contracts with bilateral or multilateral agencies

• Evidence of past work: year, location, client, project description, and budget

• Assurance that no prior contracts were terminated due to the applicant’s fault

• Proof of material existence: office address, personnel, equipment, and local operational capacity

Why This Initiative Matters

• Empowers women entrepreneurs and promotes gender-inclusive economic growth

• Strengthens local economies through resilient, well-managed MSMEs

• Enhances access to financial services and business support networks

• Builds long-term sustainability for women-led enterprises

• Supports Niger’s development priorities by investing in women’s economic agency

How to Apply

1. Prepare Your Technical Proposal

Include:

• Detailed capacity-building methodology

• Workplan aligned with the 12-month timeline

• Monitoring and reporting approach

• Organizational experience and qualifications

2. Prepare Your Financial Proposal

• Ensure the total budget does not exceed USD 100,000

• Include breakdowns of costs, staffing, logistics, and materials

3. Provide Supporting Documentation

• Registration certificates

• Ministry agreements/recognition

• Bank account proof

• Technical references and past project records

• Evidence of local presence

4. Submit Via UNDP’s Specified Portal or Email

Follow the instructions in the official Terms of Reference (TOR).
Proposals must meet all compliance criteria to be considered.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting proposals without a clear, results-based methodology

• Ignoring the requirement for local operational presence

• Exceeding the maximum budget limit

• Providing vague or outdated references

• Failing to demonstrate at least 3 years of relevant experience

• Leaving out required legal or financial documents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the goal of EWASME?

To strengthen women-led MSMEs in Niger through capacity building, business support services, and increased access to financial and market opportunities.

2. Who can apply?

NGOs, national bodies, and CSOs with at least three years of relevant experience, proper registration, and local presence in Niger.

3. What is the project duration?

Twelve months from the date of agreement with UNDP.

4. What is the maximum budget allowed?

Proposals must not exceed USD 100,000.

5. What type of experience must applicants demonstrate?

Experience implementing similar development or enterprise-support projects, with complete records of past work, references, and budgets.

6. What partnerships are involved?

The selected organization will collaborate with UNDP, financial institutions, and the Business Development Service (BDS) network.

7. Can organizations without local offices apply?

No. Applicants must demonstrate operational presence—offices, staff, and resources—in relevant intervention areas.

Conclusion

The EWASME initiative provides a strategic opportunity for qualified organizations to strengthen women-led MSMEs in Niger through targeted capacity building, financial inclusion, and enterprise support. By investing in practical, results-driven approaches, the program enhances economic resilience and empowers women entrepreneurs across the country.

For more information, visit UNDP.