The government is targeting at least 767 women-owned businesses in refugee-hosting districts for non-repayable grants under the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) Project.
The grants are part of a nationwide initiative expected to benefit at least 2,626 women-owned enterprises, with funding ranging from Shs3.5 million to Shs107.07 million.
Speaking at an orientation meeting for local government leaders at Hursey Resort in Soroti City on October 7, 2026, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs Lakisa Mercy Faith said the programme would provide an alternative source of financing for women entrepreneurs who failed to secure loans under the earlier GROW scheme.
The initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development with support from the World Bank, seeks to help women expand their businesses and improve productivity.
Micro enterprises employing up to four people will be eligible for grants ranging from Shs3.5 million to Shs35.69 million, while small businesses employing between five and 49 people may receive between Shs39.259 million and Shs107.07 million.
The programme will prioritise businesses involved in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, as well as green enterprises, agricultural processing, solar energy, irrigation, waste management, health technology and childcare services.
Special eligibility provisions will also cover women entrepreneurs in refugee-hosting districts, persons with disabilities and vulnerable groups. Businesses in these categories may include poultry and goat rearing, food processing, tailoring, catering and childcare services.
Lakisa urged local government leaders to mobilise eligible women and provide accurate information about the application requirements.
She said applications would be free and submitted digitally through the official GROW project website or mobile application. Women who previously benefited from GROW loans will not qualify for the grants.
The government will also organise business clinics across sub-regions to help applicants prepare business plans, budgets and supporting documents.
Applicants will undergo credit reference checks and assessments relating to financial sanctions, labour and human rights compliance.
The application window will remain open for 30 calendar days from the official launch date. Successful projects will be required to run for nine to 12 months and conclude by June 2027.
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