.png)
Pathways to Financial Independence: Become a Member
Small businesses, cooperatives and entrepreneurial groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) face significant barriers: limited access to finance, outdated tools, poor infrastructure and a lack of formal networks. Our platform bridges these gaps by offering a membership that unlocks training, capital and market connections so that you can grow sustainably and strengthen your community.
What We Do
We are a charity based in the UK with an office in the DRC. We partner with community leaders, investors and service providers to deliver a five-stage support programme:
1. Vocational & business training – Practical skills in agriculture, tailoring, carpentry, mechanics, financial literacy and more. Includes sponsorship to travel to the UK.
2. Microenterprise support – Starter kits, group mentorship, village savings and loan associations and microgrants.
3. Business incubation – Coaching on business models, shared workspaces, market linkage services, branding and accounting support.
4. Investment readiness – Pitch preparation, legal and governance training, financial modelling, impact modelling, market research and post-investment coaching.
5. Scaling & market expansion – Advanced strategy advisory, digital tools, buyer introductions and quality assurance for value-chain entry.
Why Join Us
-
Tailored support: Receive hands-on coaching and locally adapted training.
-
Access to patient capital: Microgrants, loans and blended-finance options without unrealistic guarantees.
-
Market connections: Link with buyers, cooperatives and export partners.
-
Peer network: Join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs for mutual support and learning.
-
Advocacy & voice: We represent your interests to local government, NGOs and investors.
What's On Offer
-
Member orientation workshop: Introduction to the platform, tools and community.
-
Monthly training sessions: Practical, interactive modules delivered by local experts.
-
One-to-one mentorship: Regular check-ins with a business coach.
-
Seed funding window: Eligibility to apply for grants and low-interest loans.
-
Market days & exhibitions: Opportunities to showcase products and meet buyers.
-
Digital information hub: Mobile-friendly resources on best practices, market data and tender notices.
Your Journey
1. Register: Complete a simple Expression of Interest (EOI) form.
2. Screening: We assess fit and readiness using our scoring matrix.
3. Bidding: We bid for grants and capital to secure funding to support you.
4. Onboarding: Attend the orientation workshop.
5. Programme phases: Progress through the five stages at your own pace.
6. Graduation & alumni: Continue to access peer networks, advanced opportunities and advocacy channels.
How to Apply
Fill out the Expression of Interest (EOI) form available below and email it back to us at info@afroinno.org. The form can also be sent to you via WhatsApp. Registration is free and open to all small-scale producers, informal groups, cooperatives, and individual entrepreneurs.
For any assistance, please contact:
Fany Bamubila, Legal Representative of AIG–DRC
DRC: +243 843 227 896
UK (WhatsApp): +44 7939 779 322
Email: info@afroinno.org