Pathways to Scale Program 2026: Exclusive Mastercard Foundation & WUSC Business Support for Women-Led Businesses ·Led Businesses

Implemented by World University Service of Canada (WUSC) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the Pathways to Scale Program is a major initiative designed to strengthen women-owned and women-led businesses through tailored business support, access to finance, expert mentorship, and strategic networking opportunities.

Applications for the current intake are open until 31 July 2026.

About the Pathways to Scale (P2S) Program

Pathways to Scale (P2S) is a multi-country initiative that aims to help women entrepreneurs expand their businesses while increasing employment opportunities for young women across Africa. The program focuses on enterprises that have demonstrated growth potential and are positioned to scale their operations with the right combination of financial and technical support.

The initiative is implemented by World University Service of Canada (WUSC) with support from the Mastercard Foundation. According to the program, P2S seeks to strengthen women-led enterprises by improving access to financing, strengthening business systems, and creating stronger connections with investors, financial institutions, and corporate partners.

The broader program is expected to support thousands of women entrepreneurs while contributing to sustainable economic development across participating countries.

Benefits of the Pathways to Scale Program

Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive package of business support designed to accelerate enterprise growth.

Benefits include:

• Access to financing opportunities
• Tailored business support powered by SIGMA™ AI
• Individualized mentorship from experienced business and industry experts
• Advisory support to strengthen business performance
• Opportunities to connect with investors
• Connections with corporate partners
• Linkages to financial institutions
• Networking opportunities within a strong ecosystem of entrepreneurs and development partners

Rather than offering only financial support, the program combines funding pathways with practical business development services that help enterprises become more competitive and sustainable.

Who Can Apply?

The Pathways to Scale Program 2026 is designed for established women-owned and women-led businesses that are ready to scale their operations and increase their impact. The current application round targets enterprises operating in selected sectors across four African countries.

To be eligible for the Pathways to Scale Program 2026, applicants should meet the following requirements:

Business Ownership

Applicants must:

• Own or manage a women-owned or women-led business.

Eligible Countries

The business must be legally operating in one of the following countries:

• Ethiopia
• Ghana
• Nigeria
• Rwanda

Eligible Sectors

Businesses should operate in:

• Agriculture
• Manufacturing
• Related sectors

Business Requirements

Applicants should also:

• Demonstrate measurable impact in rural or peri-urban communities.
• Generate annual revenues of more than US$650,000.
• Be seeking opportunities to grow their business through access to finance, tailored business support, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the official eligibility criteria and complete the online application form with accurate and up-to-date business information before submitting their application.

Program Focus

The Pathways to Scale Program seeks businesses capable of creating long-term economic impact.

Priority is given to enterprises that:

• Create employment opportunities.
• Strengthen local value chains.
• Support rural and peri-urban economic development.
• Demonstrate business growth potential.
• Contribute to sustainable and inclusive economic development.

The program recognizes that women entrepreneurs often face greater challenges in accessing finance and investment. Through mentorship, advisory services, and investor engagement, P2S aims to reduce these barriers and enable businesses to scale successfully.

Why Apply?

Participating businesses gain access to more than funding alone.

Successful enterprises will benefit from:

• Business growth support tailored to their needs.
• AI-powered business advisory tools through SIGMA™ AI.
• Guidance from experienced mentors.
• Increased visibility among investors and financial institutions.
• Expanded professional networks.
• Opportunities to strengthen operational systems and long-term sustainability.

For businesses seeking to expand operations, improve management systems, or secure future investment, the program offers a valuable platform for growth.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the official online application form.

During the application process, applicants will be asked to:

1. Confirm whether they are completing the application themselves or on behalf of another participant.
2. Read and acknowledge the Data Privacy and Consent Notice.
3. Agree to the consent terms for data sharing.
4. Complete the eligibility and due diligence questions.
5. Submit the required business information through the online application portal.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare accurate business information before beginning the application.

APPLY HERE

Important Deadline

Application Deadline: 31 July 2026

Late applications may not be considered.

Conclusion

The Pathways to Scale (P2S) Program represents an important opportunity for established women-led businesses seeking to expand their impact across Africa. By combining access to finance with mentorship, AI-powered business support, investor connections, and strategic networking, the program provides a comprehensive growth platform for enterprises operating in Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Rwanda.