Status: Published

Classification: Window 3

Category: Window 3: Start-up Support

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NOTICE NO. SIEF-W3/2026
SKILLS, INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP FUND
CALL FOR PROPOSAL FOR STARTUP GRANT

The Gambia, with its vibrant youth population and commitment to development, is poised for a promising future, yet faces several challenges. In the realm of basic education, the focus is on improving learning outcomes, particularly in the early grades, to ensure every child acquires the necessary foundational skills. The Government of The Gambia recognized and prioritized the challenge of having a higher quality and relevance in youth, technical, and vocational education and training (TVET) to meet labour market demands. For the large population living in poverty, the goal is to provide a second chance through access to social protection measures, skills training, and income-generating opportunities. These challenges, while significant, are being addressed with determination and a vision for a resilient, inclusive, skilled, and equitable Gambia.

To address these challenges, The Gambia Resilience, Inclusion, Skills, and Equity Project (The Gambia RISE Project – P197233) is a multi-sectoral, five-year initiative of The Government of The Gambia, funded by the World Bank. The project aims to increase the foundational skills of students in early grades (Component 1), provide job-relevant training to youth (Component 2), and boost income-generating opportunities, including for the poor and vulnerable (Component 3), in The Gambia. The Gambia’s National Development Plan (2023-2027) prioritizes Human Capital Development (Pillar IV) and Empowerment, Social Inclusion, and Leaving No One Behind (Pillar VI). The RISE project is aligned with the Government’s Education Sector Strategic Plan 2016-2030 and The Gambia National Social Protection Policy 2015-2025. 
The project is being implemented by multiple Implementing Entities (IEs): the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE), the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), and the National Nutrition Agency/National Social Protection Secretariat (NaNA/NSPS). Each of these IEs leads technical activities within its respective domain. The RISE Project is coordinated and managed by a Central Project Coordination Unit (CPCU) within the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs.

The Gambia's aspirations for a diversified and sustainable economy hinge on a skilled and adaptable workforce. However, current Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems face challenges in equipping youth with the relevant skills and fostering a culture of innovation. The Skill Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fund (SIE Fund), established by MoHERST as a key component of the World Bank-funded RISE project, emerges as a critical intervention, designed to bridge this gap and empower a generation of skilled and entrepreneurial young Gambians.

The SIE Fund has three-pronged interventions referred to as windows:

2.0 Startup Support Window
Recognizing the critical role of innovative startups in driving economic growth and job creation, this window provides targeted support to young entrepreneurs with high-potential business ideas. This Support Window serves as a launchpad for youth entrepreneurship in The Gambia. 

3.0 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Startup Support Window funding, aspiring entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria:

Eligibility Criteria for Startup Support Window
To qualify for the Startup Support Window funding, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Gambian Nationality
   Applicants must be Gambian citizens who are residents of The Gambia. Evidence of nationality and residency will be required (e.g., national ID, proof of residence).
2. Age Requirement
   Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35 at the time of application. Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate, national ID) must be submitted.
3. Business Registration
   The business must be formally registered with the Registrar of Companies at the Ministry of Justice in The Gambia. A copy of the official business registration certificate must be provided.
4. Innovation and Growth Potential
   The proposed business idea must demonstrate innovation and strong growth potential. It should address a specific gap in the market or offer a novel solution to a pressing challenge. The business idea must be aligned with the national priorities for economic development and job creation.
   • Technology-driven Startups: With technological and innovative driven impact.
   • Social Enterprises: Startups that address critical social and environmental challenges through sustainable business models.
   • Creative Industries: Innovative products or services in areas identified within the Recovery Focused National Development Plan (2023-2027).
5. Feasible Business Plan
   Applicants must submit a comprehensive business plan that clearly outlines:
   • Market research demonstrating the demand for the product or service.
   • Financial projections covering at least the first 3 years of business operations, including anticipated revenues, costs, and profits.
   • A clear business strategy detailing the steps for product development, market penetration, and scaling.
6. Alignment with National Development Priorities
   The business idea should be aligned with the the sectors such as Engineering, Agriculture, Tourism, Art & Craft, Business and ICT of the Recovery Focussed National Development Plan (2023-2027), particularly with the focus on:
   • Youth Empowerment and Employment
   • Technological Innovation
   • Sustainable Economic Growth
7. Demonstrable Commitment and Capability
   Applicants must demonstrate:
   • Commitment to their business venture and an understanding of the market and industry.
   • Entrepreneurial experience or relevant skills that support the likelihood of success.
   • A capacity for growth and scale, which can be measured through the applicant's skills, resources, and readiness for mentorship.
8. Priority to Window 2 Beneficiaries
   Priority will be given to applicants who are beneficiaries of Window 2 (Promoting Relevant Skills Development) of the SIE Fund. These applicants should have previously participated in skills training, internships, or other relevant programs under Window 2.
9. Operational Readiness
   Applicants must show that their business is either operational or has clear plans for launching within 6 months of receiving support. This may include evidence of product prototypes, customer acquisition, or other proof of business readiness.
10. Social Impact and Job Creation
    The startup should be designed to create jobs or contribute to the local economy. Businesses with a clear social impact or those that can contribute to poverty alleviation, social inclusion, or environmental sustainability will be given additional consideration.

    Selection Criteria
    In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, the following factors will be considered during the evaluation and selection process:

    1. Innovation and Uniqueness
       Degree of novelty and differentiation from existing products or services in the market.
    2. Scalability and Sustainability
       Potential for business growth and long-term sustainability, including economic, environmental, and social factors.
    3. Impact on Job Creation
       The ability of the business to generate direct and indirect employment for youth and vulnerable groups.
    4. Viability of Financial Projections
       Realistic and achievable financial goals, supported by sound market research and strategy.
    5. Readiness to Scale
       Clear evidence that the business is positioned for scaling and will benefit from the funding and mentorship offered by the SIEF.

    These criteria are designed to select only the most promising and innovative startups, ensuring that the fund supports businesses with the greatest potential to drive economic growth, job creation, and social development in The Gambia.
    Prior to the final evaluation site verification will be conducted to ascertain claims made by the applicants.

5.0 Application Process
The application process for Startup Support Window funding will be a multi-stage process, differing from the process for the other windows, following the following steps:

• Application: Aspiring entrepreneurs will apply, detailing their business concept, team composition, and financial projections through the SIE Fund Secretariat. All applications should indicate a list of equipment and their estimated cost, which shall be included in the budget.
• Evaluation and Selection: Proposals will undergo a rigorous evaluation process, combining assessments of the application form, pitching presentations, and their potential for impact and growth.
• Pitching Event: Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an open pitching event, where they will present their business ideas to a panel of judges.
• Notification and Award: All applicants will be notified of the funding decision. Successful applicants will receive grant agreements outlining the terms and conditions of the award, including disbursement schedules and reporting requirements.

6.0 Support Provided:
The SIE Fund acknowledges the challenges faced by aspiring entrepreneurs. To assist young Gambians in navigating the application process, the Fund will offer a range of support mechanisms, including:

• Online Engagement Workshops: The Fund Secretariat will organise workshops equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills in business plan development, financial management, and pitching techniques.
• Mentorship Matching Programme: Successful applicants will be provided with mentorship support connecting young entrepreneurs with experienced mentors who can provide personalised guidance and support.
• Online Resources: The SIE Fund Secretariat will host a dedicated online section with downloadable resources, application guides, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) to assist applicants. 

7.0 Evaluation Procedure
The evaluation of the proposals' merit is carried out to assess their relevance and quality, providing input for decision-making. This evaluation procedure provides an opportunity for the improvement of the ideas presented, giving greater credibility to the process and making the selection and approval process a tool for continuous improvement.

9.0 Timeline and Communication:
The window will follow the steps below and the indicative timeline.

• Publication for call for proposals -17th August 2026
• Submission deadline -16th September 2026
• Evaluation and pitching- 5th to 16th October 2026
• coaching and mentorship - 30th  November 2026