Women in Green Economy | 24-27 February 2026 | Cape TownEmpowering Women In The Green Economy

Financing growth for women entrepreneurs  WORKSHOP 3 – GENDER FINANCE 

In Africa’s growing green economy, the role of women entrepreneurs is critical for driving innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth. However, access to finance remains a significant barrier, particularly for women-led businesses, stifling their potential to scale and make an impact. 

Financing growth for women entrepreneurs

This session will focus on bridging that gap by providing practical insights, guidance, and networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs access financing through channels designed specifically for their unique needs.

Agenda:

• Financial instruments for women: Overview of financing mechanisms specifically tailored for women entrepreneurs and MSMEs, including grants, microfinance, impact investing, and venture capital.
• Navigating the funding landscape: Understanding the criteria and expectations of different funders and how to effectively pitch and secure funding.
• Challenges and solutions: Identifying barriers to accessing finance for women and presenting solutions through innovative financial products, policy support, and mentorship programmes.
• The role of impact investors and DFIs: The growing role of development finance institutions (DFIs) and impact investors in funding green economy businesses with a gender lens.

Workshop facilitators:

Nyeji Mhango, Managing Partner, wCap limited, Zambia

Jenni Chamberlain, Managing Partner & Director, Altree Capital, South Africa

Erica Nell, Head of SME debt, Sanlam Investments, South Africa

Seats are limited.  Women IN Green Economy coffee connect session

A morning where women find their voice and learn how to break barriers and bias in the green economy. This is not about adapting to the current workplace; it’s about redefining the mould and recreating a work environment that benefit and uplift women. 

07:00 – 07:45 Welcome tea and coffee

07:45 - 08:00 Keynote address: Pinky Kekana, Deputy Minister, Department of Public Service and Administration, South Africa

08:00 - 08:45 Panel DiscussionGreen Reforms: Women Leading the Charge for a Sustainable Future

This session will focus on the pivotal role women play in driving green reforms across sectors, particularly in policy and regulatory frameworks. It will discuss how women entrepreneurs are not only contributing to the green economy but also influencing sustainable practices through their businesses.

Key Topics

• The importance of women in shaping green reforms and policies
• Case studies of women-led initiatives driving green regulatory frameworks
• Empowering women through green reforms: fostering leadership and advocacy
• Scaling women-owned green businesses within the policy environment

Key Questions:

• What role do women play in green reforms, and how can their voices be amplified?
• How can women green entrepreneurs influence the policy landscape for a more inclusive green economy?
• What successful models have emerged globally for integrating gender-sensitive reforms in green policy?

08:45-09:00 Wrap up and Group Photo