The FAO-ITC EWAT Investment-readiness Bootcamp was a 2-day intensive training program
0rganized in Lagos, Nigeria on August 10-11, 2023. The bootcamp aimed to strengthen the
investment readiness and financing capacities of women-led micro and small enterprises (MSMEs) in
the agribusiness sector to leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area
(AfCFTA).
The bootcamp was organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and International
Trade Centre (ITC), in partnership with The Orbra Company. It was held at the Premier Innovation Hub
and saw the participation of 34 women entrepreneurs running agribusinesses across crop
production, food processing, logistics, retail, and distribution.
Over the two days, participants engaged in immersive sessions facilitated by industry experts
covering strategic planning, financial management, business modeling, governance, storytelling,
pitching, technology adoption, and more. 
Key outcomes from the bootcamp include enhanced financial management capacities, investment
readiness, improved knowledge in the preparation of business plans, strengthened confidence in
pitching abilities, and expanded networks as well as requirements for accessing grants. Participants
rated the overall experience highly and found the practical knowledge gained to be invaluable.