In the ever-evolving landscape of social innovation, one thing remains constant—access to the right resources can be a game-changer. Many early-stage social enterprises and NGOs have the vision, passion, and drive to create meaningful impact, but limited funding, lack of essential tools, and restricted access to skilled talent often hold them back.
Recognizing this challenge, African Social Enterprise Workshop (ASEW) launched the Resource Grant—a targeted initiative designed to provide social innovators with funding to acquire essential resources for building businesses and strengthening their capacities to sustain their impact.
What is the Resource Grant?
The Resource Grant is a direct-response initiative tailored for early-stage social enterprises and NGOs. Rather than offering unrestricted cash grants, ASEW ensures that funding is channeled into essential tools, technology, equipment, knowledge, and human talent—the critical elements required to drive sustainable impact.
With funding of up to ₦500,000 or $300 equivalent, recipients gain access to resources that would otherwise be out of reach due to limited and complex funding options, enabling them to improve operations, enhance service delivery, and solidify their social business models.
Who Can Apply?
The grant is open to:
✔ Early-stage social enterprises
✔ Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
✔ African-based social innovators focused on driving positive change
However, it’s not just about having a great idea. Applicants must demonstrate active engagement in ASEW’s programs, showing proof of participation in learning sessions, workshops, and community discussions across our social media channel. This ensures that those who receive the grant are committed to both personal and professional growth.
Meet Our First Resource Grant Winner!
We’re excited to announce the first-ever recipient of the ASEW Resource Grant—Benjamin Olorunfemi, Executive Director of Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI). Benjamin’s organization has been working tirelessly to raise awareness of issues related to hypertension and diabetes, their effects, and prevention methods in Nigeria and beyond. He has been active member of our learning community, having attended more than five training sessions with certificates, aside his online engagements. With the support of the Resource Grant, he was able to acquire key resources to launch a social rental business. The enterprise is designed to generate revenue that will sustain the impactful work of ROHSI, ensuring that they can continue supporting underserved communities in a financially sustainable way. As part of this grant, Benjamin will receive mentorship sessions to refine his business model and gain access to additional community resources to support his journey.
Why This Matters
The impact of the Resource Grant goes beyond just one recipient. By equipping social innovators with the tools they need, we’re bridging the gap between great ideas and real, lasting impact. Every social enterprise that thrives contributes to a larger ecosystem of impact-oriented organizations tackling pressing challenges across Africa.
If you’re an aspiring social entrepreneur or NGO leader looking for ways to sustain your impact, join our learning community today to stay updated about the next Resource Grant opportunity!
Stay tuned and visit https://aseworkshop.com to learn how you can get involved with ASEW.