Uganda GROW Project Empowers Women Entrepreneurs,⁣ Boosts Economic Growth

Updated ⁣May 30, 2025
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In⁤ Mukono, Uganda, Sarah Nakimuli’s tailoring shop exemplifies the impact ⁢of the Generating Growth Opportunities and⁣ Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) Project. Launched in March 2023 by President Yoweri ⁣Kaguta Museveni, the project has enabled Nakimuli to transform her⁤ small business into a thriving enterprise. She⁢ now employs⁤ six⁣ women and serves clients throughout the district.

The ⁣GROW Project, backed by a $217 million World Bank grant, is implemented by Uganda’s Ministry of Gender,⁣ Labor and Social Development and the Private sector Foundation uganda.⁣ it tackles obstacles women ‍face in scaling businesses, including limited capital,⁢ inadequate skills, and social barriers.The project offers training, mentorship, grants,⁣ and low-interest loans⁢ to women-owned micro and small enterprises across Uganda.

Nakimuli, a 34-year-old mother of three, started her⁣ tailoring business in 2019. Despite her talent, growth was slow. “I struggled to‍ afford quality materials or hire help,” nakimuli said. In ⁣2023, she learned about the GROW Project ⁤through a Women Entrepreneurship Platform‍ (WEP) in Mukono.

Through the WEP, nakimuli enrolled in the GROW Project’s ⁢training program, covering business management, financial literacy, and digital marketing.

“The‍ training opened my eyes,” ⁢Nakimuli said. “I learned how to keep‍ proper records, price my products competitively, ‍and even market online.” the program also addressed gender stereotypes, empowering her to navigate societal pressures. She participated in community dialogues, fostering a more⁤ inclusive environment.

Inspired, Nakimuli applied for a‍ GROW loan through ⁣Centenary Bank, securing a UGX⁣ 10 million loan in early 2024. “The process was straightforward, and⁤ there were no hidden⁣ fees,” ⁢she noted. The loan allowed her to purchase equipment, fabric, ⁣and hire staff.

Nakimuli also won a GROW ⁢grant for innovative ‍businesses, funding a workspace expansion. Through GROW’s work placement program, she connected with a master tailor who mentored‍ her.”The mentorship was invaluable,” Nakimuli said.

Her business now designs uniforms for schools and caters to the demand for eco-friendly fashion, aligning with GROW’s priorities. “I’m not ⁤just running⁣ a business; I’m creating‍ jobs and inspiring other women,” she⁢ said.

The⁤ GROW Project benefits marginalized groups,including refugees and ethnic minorities. Nakimuli appreciates the project’s⁢ outreach, noting that it fosters unity. The project’s networking through ⁢WEPs has connected her⁣ with other female entrepreneurs.

Nakimuli’s success has had a ⁢ripple effect. Her employees have gained financial ⁤independence, and her business contributes to the local economy.Men ⁤in her ⁢community now support her efforts. “My husband is my biggest supporter now,”⁤ she said.

As the GROW Project continues to empower women across⁢ uganda, stories like Nakimuli’s highlight its impact. With plans to expand ⁣into Kampala’s ‍markets, Nakimuli is poised for greater success.⁢ “The ⁤GROW Project didn’t just give me funds; it gave me confidence, skills, and a network to dream bigger,” she said.

What’s next

The GROW project ⁣aims⁣ to continue its support for women entrepreneurs in Uganda, fostering economic empowerment and breaking down barriers to success. Women can contact their local GROW Focal Point Officer or visit the⁤ GROW website for application details.