Overview: What COYWA Aims to Achieve
The Creating Opportunities for Youth and Women in Africa (COYWA) programme, launched by AUDA NEPAD in partnership with AECID, is designed to unlock economic and social potential across the continent. By focusing on gender equality, youth empowerment, and socio-economic inclusion, COYWA offers a pathway for impactful local projects that create durable change in communities. Grants of up to €120,000 are available to selected initiatives that demonstrate clear alignment with COYWA’s objectives and demonstrate sustainable impact beyond the grant period.
Who Can Apply
COYWA is aimed at organizations and consortia that work directly with youth and women. Applicants should present a strong track record, a feasible plan, and measurable outcomes. Priority will be given to projects that address barriers to inclusion—such as access to education and training, entrepreneurship support, digital literacy, health and safety, financial inclusion, and pathways to decent work. Collaboration with local stakeholders, including women’s groups, youth associations, and community leaders, can strengthen proposals across sectors.
What COYWA Funds Can Do
Grants of up to €120,000 enable project activities that deliver concrete results within a defined timeframe. Typical investments include skills development programs, mentorship and entrepreneurship training, micro-enterprise support, access to technology and digital platforms, and services that reduce gender-based barriers. Importantly, COYWA emphasizes inclusive design, ensuring that women and young people have a meaningful role from planning to implementation and monitoring.
Key Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria
Applicants should demonstrate:
– Strong alignment with COYWA’s goals around gender equality, youth empowerment, and socio-economic inclusion.
– A clear theory of change with measurable indicators (outputs, outcomes, impact).
– Sustainable impact plans, including maintenance of activities after the grant period where possible.
– Strong partnerships with community stakeholders and, where appropriate, local governments or civil society organizations.
– Realistic budgeting and clear risk management strategies.
Selection will consider the potential for scale, replication in other communities, and alignment with AUDA NEPAD’s regional objectives. Proposals that include innovative approaches, such as digital solutions, inclusive finance models, or scalable training platforms, may receive additional consideration.
How to Apply
Interested organizations should prepare a comprehensive grant proposal outlining the problem, the proposed solution, the target beneficiaries, expected outcomes, and a detailed budget. Applicants should also include a monitoring and evaluation plan, risk assessment, and sustainability strategy. The application window will be announced by AUDA NEPAD and partners, and applicants will be guided through a transparent review process. It is advisable to begin collaborations with potential beneficiaries and local partners early to strengthen the proposal.
Why This Programme Matters
Investing in young people and women is foundational for inclusive growth. When communities enable equal access to education, entrepreneurship, and leadership opportunities, economies grow more resilient and inclusive. COYWA’s emphasis on Africa-wide inclusion supports a stronger, more equitable future while aligning with international development goals and regional development strategies.
What Success Looks Like
Successful COYWA projects deliver measurable improvements in employment, income, and social empowerment for young people and women. They also contribute to community resilience by fostering local ownership, building networks, and sharing lessons learned across regions. The programme’s results-oriented approach helps ensure that funding translates into lasting benefits for families and communities.
Take the Next Step
If you are an eligible organization ready to drive change, monitor indicators of success, and partner with local communities, COYWA could be the catalyst your project needs. Keep an eye on official AUDA NEPAD announcements for the application window, guidelines, and submission deadlines. Preparing a strong proposal now will position your organization to seize this opportunity and advance gender equality, youth empowerment, and socio-economic inclusion across Africa.
