Apply for the Mastercard Foundation BRIDGE-in-Agriculture Program 2025. Empowering SMEs in Ghana’s agricultural sector with loans and training.
Introduction
The Mastercard Foundation BRIDGE-in-Agriculture Program 2025 is a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector in Ghana. This program seeks to build resilience among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing affordable capital and comprehensive support, focusing on the empowerment of youth and women. As Ghana’s agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the BRIDGE-in-Agriculture program stands out as a beacon of opportunity for those seeking to thrive in this vital sector.
With ongoing applications, the program not only aims to facilitate the growth of agribusinesses but also strives to equip the next generation with the skills necessary for dignified employment. This initiative is crucial for addressing the financial burdens that many young people face while enabling them to contribute to poverty reduction in their communities. Let’s dive deeper into the details of this program and explore the opportunities it presents.
Program Components
The BRIDGE-in-Agriculture Program is structured around two main components:
- Loan Program:
- The program collaborates with commercial banks to offer affordable and accessible loans specifically tailored for agribusinesses in Ghana.
- The loans are designed to tackle the existing barriers that SMEs face when seeking financial assistance.
- Loan amounts can vary, reaching up to GHS 11,000,000, based on the specific needs of the business.
- Training Program:
- In partnership with Business Development Service (BDS) providers, the program offers free targeted training and technical support to agribusinesses.
- The training is aimed at equipping youth and women with the skills needed to secure dignified employment or enhance their business operations.
- Selected training participants have the opportunity to win grants of up to GHS 27,500 to support their business growth.
Benefits of the BRIDGE-in-Agriculture Program
The Mastercard Foundation BRIDGE-in-Agriculture Program offers a variety of benefits for participants, including:
- Access to Affordable Financing: Agribusinesses can secure loans at single-digit interest rates, significantly easing the financial burden on young entrepreneurs and women.
- Skill Development: Participants receive valuable training that enhances their skills, preparing them for employment opportunities or enabling them to grow their businesses.
- Grants for Growth: Training participants may be eligible for grants to support their business initiatives, providing an additional layer of financial support.
- Job Creation: By supporting agribusiness growth, the program contributes to job creation in the agricultural sector, particularly for youth and women.
- Poverty Reduction: The initiative aims to reduce poverty by empowering individuals through employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the BRIDGE-in-Agriculture program, applicants must meet certain criteria:
For Loan Applicants:
- Target Sectors: Must be an SME in agriculture or adjacent sectors that impact the agricultural value chain.
- Ownership: Businesses should be owned, led, or managed by youth (ages 15-35) or women, or predominantly employ these groups.
- Operational Duration: Must have been operational and generating revenue for at least 6 months.
- Geographical Focus: Primarily targets businesses in middle and southern Ghana, though this may evolve over time.
For Training Participants:
- Age and Gender: Open to young entrepreneurs (ages 18-35) and women involved in agriculture or related sectors.
- Purpose: Participants should be seeking to enhance their skills, grow their businesses, or find new employment opportunities.
Required Documents
When applying for the BRIDGE-in-Agriculture program, applicants will need to prepare the following documents:
- Business Registration Documents: Proof of business registration and ownership.
- Financial Statements: Recent financial statements or records demonstrating revenue generation for at least the last 6 months.
- Identification: Valid identification for the business owner(s) and key management personnel.
- Loan Application Form: Completed application form as required by the selected commercial bank.
- Training Application Form: For training, a completed application form for the specific training offered by either Africa Skills Hub (ASH) or Mind Builders Africa (MBA).
| Required Documents | Description |
|---|---|
| Business Registration Documents | Proof of business registration and ownership |
| Financial Statements | Recent financial statements showing revenue |
| Identification | Valid ID for business owner(s) and key personnel |
| Loan Application Form | Completed form for selected commercial bank |
| Training Application Form | Application for specific training with BDS providers |
How to Apply
Applying for the BRIDGE-in-Agriculture program involves a straightforward process:
- Step 1: Determine Eligibility : Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria outlined above for either the loan or training program.
- Step 2: Prepare Required Documents : Gather all necessary documentation before proceeding with the application.
- Step 3: Select a Bank : For loan applications, visit the program portal to select a commercial bank that aligns with your needs.
- Step 4: Complete the Application : Fill out the loan application form and submit it through the program portal. If applying for training, choose your preferred BDS provider (ASH or MBA) and complete their application process.
- Step 5: Await Response : After submission, monitor your email for updates on your application status. Successful applicants will receive further instructions on the next steps.
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation BRIDGE-in-Agriculture Program 2025 represents a significant opportunity for SMEs in Ghana’s agricultural sector. By providing affordable loans and comprehensive training, the program empowers young entrepreneurs and women to enhance their skills, grow their businesses, and contribute to poverty reduction efforts. With applications currently open, interested individuals are encouraged to seize this opportunity to build a sustainable future in agriculture.
By participating in the BRIDGE-in-Agriculture program, you not only invest in your own future but also play a vital role in transforming Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the BRIDGE-in-Agriculture program?
The program is open to SMEs in agriculture and adjacent sectors, as well as young entrepreneurs and women seeking training in these fields.
2. What is the maximum loan amount available?
Loan amounts can go up to GHS 11,000,000, depending on the specific needs of the business.
3. Are there any grants available through the program?
Yes, selected training participants can win grants of up to GHS 27,500 to support their business growth.
4. How long does the application process take?
The duration varies, but applicants will receive updates via email regarding their application status after submission.
5. Where can I find more information about the program?
For more details, visit the official BIA Programme website.