The government, through the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), has disbursed over GH₵100 million in grants between September 2021 and June 2024 to foster an environment where innovative ideas can thrive.
According to a press statement, the Grant Award Signing and Orientation Ceremony will support 450 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups across Ghana. This initiative aligns with the Government’s commitment to advancing business skills, enhancing capacity, and fostering economic growth.
The statement also noted that since September 2021, over 30,000 emerging businesses have undergone extensive training.
The initiative is under the auspices of the GEA, Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI), Ministry of Finance (MOF), and National Entrepreneurship Innovation Programme (NEIP). Organisers say it marks a significant advancement in empowering Ghanaian entrepreneurs and creating jobs.
The recipients of grants under the YouStart Ghana Jobs and Skills Project (GJSP) and the Ghana Economic Transformation Project (GETP) were selected through a rigorous competitive process. This selection highlights the dedication to supporting both start-ups and existing MSMEs, assessing their potential for innovation, sustainability, growth, and job creation. The selected enterprises span a diverse range of industries, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit inherent in Ghana.
This competitive grant programme underscores the Government’s commitment to creating jobs by providing essential resources, including funding and support mechanisms, to ensure the success of the selected start-ups and established businesses.
The collaborative efforts between government entities, the private sector, and esteemed partners, including the World Bank, have been crucial to the success of these initiatives. The impact extends beyond financial support, representing a significant investment in the potential of Ghanaian citizens.
Furthermore, by combining funding with tailored training, mentorship, coaching, and monitoring, the government is creating an ecosystem where entrepreneurship and innovation can thrive, driving Ghana toward sustained economic growth and prosperity.
Notably, the government’s commitment to supporting Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), as the first of its kind globally to empower PwDs, further underscores its dedication to inclusive development. It also reaffirms the government’s commitment to creating ample economic opportunities, reducing social challenges, and inspiring youth toward a more prosperous future. This collective effort reflects Ghana’s dedication to inclusive and sustainable development, aligning with global progress and equity goals.
The Ghana Enterprises Agency remains committed to supporting and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Ghana’s economic transformation.
By Eugene Davis
