Are you an innovative entrepreneur ready to scale your business and create a lasting impact? The future of business in Lesotho is YOU! If you plan to and have potential, or are a high-growth, high-impact innovative SME or startup, this is your chance to take your enterprise to the next level.
The Government of Lesotho has received a loan from the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank to implement the Lesotho Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion (CAFI) Project. The Project Development Objective (PDO) is to “increase access to business support services and financial products targeted at MSMEs and entrepreneurs, especially women and youth”.
The Lesotho Entrepreneurship Hub and Seed Financing Facility (LEHSFF) under the CAFI Project invites innovative SMEs and startups to apply for the 5th Incubation Cycle, running from February 2026 to August 2026.
This program, a key component of the CAFI Project, is designed to empower high-growth, high-impact enterprises, particularly in agriculture, tourism and hospitality, construction, manufacturing and green energy, creative industries and technology & innovation, in alignment with the Second National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP II).
Why Apply?
This six months incubation program will benefit selected enterprises as they will receive:
- Needs assessment for tailored mentorship, coaching, and industry expertise
- Product or service refinement for market readiness
- Business model refinement and technical assistance
- Networking opportunities with investors and market stakeholders
- Digitization support for enhanced efficiency
- Training on financial management, marketing, HR, and operations
- Facilitation of access to finance and investment opportunities for the enterprises by linking them with investors and other sources of financing
- Assistance in developing a scalable two-year business plan
Who Can Apply?
✔ Enterprises with high growth potential and are innovative
✔ Operational businesses with market-ready products
✔ Full-time entrepreneurs committed to the six-month incubation
✔ Businesses demonstrating scalability and job creation potential
✔ Enterprises addressing developmental challenges through technology, science, or innovation
✔ You are not a one-person (permanent staff) company.
✔ Enterprises ready to abide by environmental and social safeguards
How to Apply
Visit www.cafi.org.ls to complete your application and select your preferred Enterprise Support Organization (ESO).
Deadline: December 12, 2025
Women- and youth-led enterprises are strongly encouraged to apply!
Please note: As an enterprise you are not allowed to apply to more than one ESO