01
Leadership Development
Strong leadership is essential for sustainable development. We invest in developing ethical, visionary and capable leaders who can influence organisations, industries and communities while inspiring positive change.
Opportunities and programmes
Advancing opportunity through purposeful action
Nine strategic pillars provide the framework through which we collaborate with partners, develop programmes and contribute to inclusive economic transformation.
02
Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development
Entrepreneurship drives innovation, creates employment and strengthens economies. We support women entrepreneurs by promoting business growth, enterprise resilience and access to opportunities that enable sustainable success.
03
Opportunity Creation
Opportunity lies at the heart of our mission. We work to expand access to knowledge, markets, mentorship, finance, partnerships and platforms that help women realise their potential.
04
Trade and Market Access
Expanding access to domestic, regional and international markets enables businesses to grow and compete globally. We promote trade, market linkages and business connections that support enterprise development.
05
Investment Promotion
Sustainable enterprises require access to investment. We encourage collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, financial institutions and development partners to strengthen Africa's investment ecosystem.
06
Innovation and Technology
Innovation is a catalyst for economic transformation. We support initiatives that encourage creativity, digital transformation, research and the adoption of technologies that improve productivity and competitiveness.
07
Capacity Development
Knowledge builds confidence and capability. Through training, mentorship and professional development, we strengthen the skills required for leadership, entrepreneurship and organisational excellence.
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Strategic Partnerships
No institution creates lasting impact alone. We build partnerships that bring together governments, businesses, development organisations, financial institutions, academia and civil society to achieve shared objectives.
09
Research and Thought Leadership
Evidence-informed decisions create stronger institutions. We promote research, dialogue and knowledge-sharing that contribute to policy discussions, innovation and sustainable development across Africa.
Signature initiatives
Where you can apply
Our signature initiatives translate the pillars into practical programmes. Each is open to applications from women across the continent.
HerNext Leadership Academy
A leadership development platform designed to equip women with the knowledge, confidence and skills required to lead organisations, influence policy and drive sustainable change.
HerNext Opportunity Hub
A collaborative platform connecting women with mentorship, business support, professional networks, funding opportunities, markets and strategic partnerships that accelerate growth.
Global Trade and Investment Platform
An initiative promoting regional and international trade by connecting women entrepreneurs with buyers, investors, trade missions, exhibitions and global business opportunities.
Innovation and Sustainability Forum
A platform that encourages innovation, technology adoption and sustainable business practices while promoting dialogue on Africa's future economy.
HerNext Partnership Forum
An annual platform bringing together governments, corporations, development partners, financial institutions, academia and entrepreneurs to explore collaborative solutions for inclusive economic development.
Research and Policy Dialogue
A thought leadership initiative promoting research, policy discussions and evidence-based recommendations on women's economic transformation and Africa's development.
Strategic priority areas
Creating impact across Africa's growth sectors
We focus our efforts on the eleven sectors with the greatest potential to contribute to inclusive economic transformation and sustainable development.
Manufacturing and Industrial Development
Promoting value addition, industrial growth and competitive manufacturing that creates employment and strengthens regional economies.
Agriculture and Agribusiness
Supporting innovation, value chain development, food security, agro-processing and market access across one of Africa's most important economic sectors.
Technology and Digital Innovation
Encouraging digital transformation, technological entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems that prepare women for the future economy.
Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses
Supporting enterprises through mentorship, partnerships, market access and business development opportunities.
Finance and Investment
Promoting financial inclusion, investment readiness and collaboration with financial institutions that support enterprise growth.
Healthcare and Life Sciences
Encouraging innovation, research and partnerships that contribute to healthier communities and stronger healthcare systems.
Energy and Green Transition
Supporting sustainable energy solutions and initiatives that contribute to Africa's transition towards greener economies.
Climate and Sustainability
Promoting environmentally responsible business practices and climate resilience across industries.
Textile, Fashion and Creative Industries
Recognising the creative economy as a driver of employment, innovation and cultural influence.
Leadership and Governance
Encouraging ethical leadership, institutional excellence and good governance across sectors.
Trade and Regional Integration
Supporting initiatives that strengthen intra-African trade, regional cooperation and international market access.
Economic transformation requires collaboration across sectors, industries and borders.
HerNext perspective
Take the next step
Tell us what you are building
Our programmes are in development. Registering your interest tells us what to build, and puts you first in line when a cohort opens. It takes about ten minutes.