Deadline: 30-Dec-2025
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting national NGOs and civil society organisations in Niger to submit proposals under the Small and Medium Enterprise Empowerment (EWASME) program. This initiative focuses on enhancing women’s capacity in rice postproduction (processing, storage, and sale), fostering economic empowerment, and improving gender-responsive business opportunities for women-led MSMEs.
Overview of the EWASME Program
The EWASME program aims to strengthen women’s economic empowerment by supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) owned or led by women. It focuses on the postproduction stages of rice—processing, storage, and sale—ensuring that women have the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to participate effectively in the local economy.
Objectives
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Improve business conditions for women-led MSMEs
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Enhance access to skills, technical knowledge, and financial resources
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Promote gender equality and inclusive economic growth at the community level
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Engage local communities to ensure interventions address real needs
Key Features
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Location: Niger
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Target Group: Women entrepreneurs involved in rice postproduction
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Duration: 12 months from the date of partnership agreement
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Budget: Maximum USD 20,000 per project
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Mandatory Activity: At least one training session on gender equality and economic empowerment in each intervention area
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must:
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Be legally recognized national NGOs or civil society organisations in Niger
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Have a bank account in their own name
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Obtain approval from the relevant supervising ministry
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Demonstrate at least three years of experience implementing similar projects
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Have a proven track record with bilateral or multilateral agencies, supported by technical references
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Maintain a tangible presence on the ground (adequate offices, equipment, and human resources)
Ineligible Applicants: Organisations linked to terrorism, money laundering, or activities incompatible with UN values.
How the Program Works
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Partnership Formation: Selected NGO signs a partnership agreement with UNDP.
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Community Engagement: Conduct participatory needs assessments to align interventions with local realities.
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Capacity Building: Organise training on postproduction skills, storage, processing, and sales management.
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Gender Equality Sessions: Conduct at least one training per intervention area on gender and economic empowerment.
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Collaboration: Work with UNDP, partner financial institutions, and technical partners for effective implementation.
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Monitoring & Reporting: Track outcomes, report progress to UNDP, and ensure accountability.
Why It Matters
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Supports women-led enterprises in a traditionally underserved sector
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Enhances economic independence and empowerment of women at the community level
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Contributes to inclusive development and gender-responsive economic growth
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Strengthens local capacity-building infrastructure for sustainable results
Tips for a Strong Application
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Demonstrate clear experience in postproduction or women’s economic empowerment projects
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Highlight previous successful partnerships with multilateral or bilateral agencies
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Provide evidence of on-the-ground presence and operational capacity
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Ensure training and community engagement plans are feasible and culturally relevant
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Align budget with realistic activities, focusing on tangible outcomes and sustainability
FAQ
1. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to USD 20,000 per project.
2. Who can apply?
National NGOs or civil society organisations legally recognized in Niger with proven experience in related projects.
3. What is the project duration?
12 months, starting from the date the partnership agreement is signed.
4. Are gender equality trainings required?
Yes, at least one training session per intervention area must focus on gender equality and economic empowerment.
5. Can schools or commercial entities apply?
No, the call is limited to national NGOs and civil society organisations.
6. Is prior experience with UN or multilateral agencies necessary?
Yes, at least one successfully completed contract with references is required.
7. What activities are supported?
Capacity building in rice postproduction, storage, processing, sales, community engagement, and gender equality training.
Conclusion
The UNDP EWASME Program in Niger provides a unique opportunity for qualified NGOs to empower women entrepreneurs, improve the local rice sector, and foster inclusive economic development. By strengthening skills, resources, and community engagement, this initiative contributes to sustainable, gender-responsive economic growth.
For more information, visit UNDP.