WOMEN IMPACTING SOCIAL ENTERPRISES (WISE) PROGRAM
The Practice of Accompaniment
We offer technical assistance to social enterprises through accompaniment: building trusted relationships, listening deeply, and contributing meaningfully to the growth of social enterprises and their communities.
Women Impacting Social Enterprises (WISE) Program
WISE (Women Impacting Social Entrepreneurship) is not a traditional incubator or a one-size-fits-all training program. We work alongside each woman-led social enterprise, offering tailored, hands-on accompaniment that focuses on what matters most: building sustainable businesses and improving access to funding. We understand that social enterprises are often resource-limited, which is why we step in as an extension of their team. We take the time to understand their specific needs, nurture peer learning, and create meaningful connections that strengthen both the entrepreneur and the community around her.
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Through WISE, enterprises receive support across social business strategy, financial literacy & management, and funding readiness - all designed to unlock growth and long-term resilience. We also offer relationship-based lending on terms that meet their needs.
Culture, ancestral wisdom, community, and livelihood form the backbone of most women-led social enterprises
Culture, ancestral wisdom, community, and livelihood are inseparable threads woven through the lives of the women we work with. Cultural preservation keeps stories, skills, and heritage alive - connecting generations and strengthening identity. Community creates the space where collaboration, learning, and mutual support can thrive. Livelihood ensures that these traditions and talents become pathways to dignity, opportunity, and sustainable futures.
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When these pillars align, women and their communities flourish - nurturing resilience, creativity, and a deep reverence for their land, their people, their culture.
• Honouring ancestral knowledge
• Protecting disappearing traditions
• Passing stories to the next generation
Cultural Preservation
Livelihood
Community
• Dignity through opportunity
• Empowering economic agency
• Sustainable, meaningful work
• Mobilizing collective strength
• Circles of care
• Shared roots, shared future
WISE Program Journey
WISE Program Journey (3–6 months)
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The WISE Fellowship unfolds across five structured phases, each carefully designed to build momentum, strengthen skills, and unlock real business growth.
(Detailed breakdown available upon request.)
Through tailored guidance and hands-on support, the WISE Fellowship helps social entrepreneurs strengthen their business, financial, and funding capabilities.
Business
Planning
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​Tailored support through expert volunteers matched to your specific needs
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A jointly developed work plan to keep your priorities front and center
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A consultative approach that encourages transparency, trust, and shared learning
Financial Literacy and Management
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​Guidance on revenue forecasting and cash flow management
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Hands-on learning of accounting fundamentals—profit & loss, balance sheets, and more
Funding
Readiness
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​Personalized mentorship
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Investment pitch deck development
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Preparing for low-interest loan opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
To join the WISE program, social enterprises must meet the following criteria:​
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Women-led and/or women-owned enterprise/women in leadership positions
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Legally registered business
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Operating for at least 2 years
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Annual revenue of at least USD 30,000
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Following basic accounting practices
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Actively seeking loan-based investment
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Impacting at least 50 women (employees or supply chain)
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Community-based and environmentally responsible
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Clear social mission and ability to communicate in English
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Available for one-hour weekly meetings during the program
Let’s help your social enterprise go further.
You started your social enterprise to make a difference and solve real problems for real people. WISE is here to walk alongside you - providing guidance, skills, and resources to help your enterprise grow, overcome challenges, and create lasting impact in your community.
You started your social enterprise to make a difference and solve real problems for real people. WISE is here to walk alongside you - providing guidance, skills, and resources to help your enterprise grow, overcome challenges, and create lasting impact in your community.