The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), through its Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative, has partnered with social impact organisation Lionesses of Africa to launch a new digital playbook designed to help women entrepreneurs secure funding, grow their businesses and drive economic transformation across the continent.
Titled ‘Financing Business Growth‘, the publication shines a spotlight on the inspiring journeys of 25 women entrepreneurs from 17 African countries, many of whom have benefited directly from AFAWA’s support. Their success stories span diverse sectors, including agribusiness, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, renewable energy, fashion, finance, retail, security and water management.
The digital playbook provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at how these entrepreneurs overcame financing barriers, attracted investors and built resilient businesses that are creating jobs and contributing to Africa’s economic development. Through compelling interviews and real-life case studies, readers gain practical insights into the strategies that have helped these business leaders secure capital and expand their enterprises.
More than a collection of success stories, the publication serves as a hands-on guide for women entrepreneurs seeking to strengthen their businesses. It also offers valuable insights for financial institutions, policymakers and business support organisations by outlining what investors and lenders look for when assessing funding opportunities. Topics covered include improving business structures, building investor confidence, managing growth and creating sustainable enterprises.
The playbook highlights the powerful impact that increased access to finance can have on women-led businesses. It demonstrates that when women entrepreneurs receive the right financial support, technical guidance and enabling business environment, they are better positioned to scale their operations, generate employment and contribute meaningfully to inclusive economic growth.
Speaking on the publication, Melanie Hawken, Founder of Lionesses of Africa, said the project is rooted in the belief that women entrepreneurs often learn their most valuable lessons from fellow women who have successfully navigated similar challenges.
According to her, the Financing Business Growth playbook combines authentic entrepreneurial experiences with practical advice on raising capital, giving more African women the tools and confidence needed to unlock funding and accelerate business success.
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The publication was developed with financial support from AFAWA as part of its strategic partnership with Lionesses of Africa. It also supports the African Development Bank Group’s Four Cardinal Points vision by promoting entrepreneurship, expanding access to finance and strengthening the private sector as a catalyst for sustainable and inclusive development across Africa.
In addition to serving as a practical business resource, the playbook contributes to ongoing discussions about Africa’s gender financing gap by documenting the real-world experiences of women entrepreneurs operating across different industries and markets.
Lionesses of Africa has grown into one of the continent’s largest communities for women entrepreneurs, connecting more than 1.8 million women across all 54 African countries, as well as members of the African Diaspora in Europe and North America. Through research, digital platforms, business resources and entrepreneurship initiatives, the organisation continues to support women in building successful and sustainable enterprises.
AFAWA, meanwhile, remains at the forefront of efforts to bridge the estimated US$42 billion financing gap facing women-owned businesses in Africa. Through innovative financing, technical assistance and policy advocacy, the initiative is helping financial institutions create a more inclusive ecosystem that enables women entrepreneurs to access capital, grow competitive businesses and play a greater role in Africa’s long-term economic prosperity.