CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: CAFI INCUBATION FOR ENTREPRENEURS, LESOTHO
Application Deadline: 30 October 2026
RISE International invites applications from 10 entrepreneurs for its six-month business incubation programme, starting in January 2027, under the Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion (CAFI) programme.
With over nine years of experience in business incubation in Lesotho, RISE International supports entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses, improve competitiveness and create employment opportunities through practical business development support.
TARGET SECTORS
Applications are invited from enterprises operating in the following sectors:
- Built Environment: Architecture, construction and design.
- Sustainable Energy: Renewable energy and related sustainable energy solutions.
- Circular Economy Solutions: Recycling, waste management, resource efficiency and other solutions promoting sustainable production and consumption.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
The programme is open to entrepreneurs aged 20–35 years whose businesses operate anywhere in Lesotho. Women- and youth-led enterprises are particularly encouraged to apply.
Applicants must:
- Hold at least a TVET certificate.
- Have an enterprise that has been operating for at least six months.
- Have moved beyond the idea stage, with a business that is being implemented and generating some income.
- Demonstrate business viability, growth potential, scalability and job creation potential.
- Be willing to participate in business coaching, mentorship, training and other incubation activities.
Applicants will also be assessed on their entrepreneurial qualities, business uniqueness, and the quality and feasibility of their business plans.
WHAT SHOULD APPLICATIONS INCLUDE?
Applications should provide the following information:
- Description of the business and its products or services.
- The problem the business seeks to solve.
- Company registration details, where applicable. If not yet registered, applicants can still apply.
- Revenue model and current revenue.
- Background and experience of the business owner, management and team.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested entrepreneurs should submit their applications through the Lesotho Entrepreneurship Hub and Seed Financing Facility (LEHSFF) website.
Apply here: https://lehsff.org.ls/
Deadline: 30 October 2026
ENQUIRIES
Contact Persons: Reitumetse Nzeku or Ts’epo Sithole
Email:
Telephone/WhatsApp: +266 5611 7280 / 5092 4084
Website: https://www.riseint.org/
Location: Happy Villa, Maseru, Lesotho
PROGRAMME DETAILS
- Programme duration: Six months
- Expected start date: January 2027
- Number of entrepreneurs to be selected: 10
ABOUT RISE INTERNATIONAL
RISE International is a social enterprise supporting entrepreneurship and youth development in Lesotho through a practical, learning-by-doing approach. Across its first five incubation cohorts, the organisation has incubated 61 entrepreneurs, contributing to the establishment of 34 businesses.
Its fellowship programme also equips unemployed youth with technical, interpersonal and business skills, alongside practical work experience.