African Food Changemakers, in partnership with Verst Carbon, has opened applications for its flagship BRACE (Building Resilience Against Climate and Environmental Shocks) Capacity Development Program an intensive, cutting-edge initiative targeting SMEs in agribusiness across the continent
What is BRACE?
BRACE is a comprehensive hybrid learning program designed to equip agripreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and network necessary to tackle escalating climate risks. Through a structured six-week online curriculum, complemented by live mentoring, peer-to-peer discussions, and practical assignments, the program positions participants to transform their operations into climate-smart enterprises
Who Should Apply?
Targeting ambitious agribusiness owners aged 18–40, the initiative welcomes those operating registered SMEs in crop or animal production covering producers, processors, marketers, and aggregators across Africa. The program supports English-speaking founder‑managers eager to:
- Understand the climate vulnerabilities of their business,
- Integrate sustainable farming and business strategies,
- Access finance tied to climate resilience and green growth.
Program Highlights
- Climate Diagnostic Tool – Participants assess their current climate-readiness and spot key gaps
- Greening Assignments – Real-world tasks aimed at reducing environmental impact and bolstering resilience
- Six-Week Self-Paced Online Course – Flexible learning modules tailored for SME leaders
- Peer Community & Mentorship – Interactive sessions fostering networking with industry experts and fellow agripreneurs
- Post-Program AFC Hub Access – Ongoing support, market linkages, and climate finance tips post-completion
Related: Buy Nigerian Products First: How Local Manufacturing Transforms Economic Growth
Why It Matters
African agribusiness SMEs are increasingly vulnerable to climate shocks—droughts, floods, erratic seasons, that threaten their productivity and livelihoods. BRACE tackles this head-on by offering:
- Practical training in climate adaptation,
- Strategic access to green financing,
- A supportive peer network to sustain long-term business success
Impact Tracking
BRACE is already making waves: monthly webinars draw in over 400 participants, and the program’s holistic structure ensures measurable improvements in climate resilience and operational sustainability
How to Apply
Deadline: June 9, 2024
Eligibility: Age 18–40, African citizen, Registered SME in crop/animal production
Commitment: 4 hours/week over six weeks, including weekly live sessions.
Click Here for full details and the application link.
SmartPreneur Insight
For agripreneurs, BRACE is more than training, it’s an investment in future-proofing. By blending diagnostics, finance-readiness, mentorship, and community, BRACE creates a pathway for SMEs to not only survive but lead in a changing climate. If you’re running an agribusiness on the continent, this is an opportunity to sharpen your resilience, sophistication, and access to green finance tools.
