Mastercard Foundation Pathways to Scale (P2S) Programme 2026 for Women-Led Businesses

The Mastercard Foundation Pathways to Scale (P2S) Programme 2026 is a growth-focused initiative implemented by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) to help women-led businesses scale operations and overcome expansion barriers. The program aims to create or sustain over 108,000 work opportunities for young African women.

Growing a business is rarely just about having a good product. Many women entrepreneurs struggle with limited access to mentorship, business advisory services, and the right networks to expand their operations. The Mastercard Foundation & WUSC Business Support Pathways to Scale (P2S) Programme 2026 was created to help bridge that gap.

Designed specifically for women-led enterprises, the programme combines practical business support, technical guidance, and growth opportunities to help promising businesses become more competitive and sustainable.

About the Programme

The Pathways to Scale (P2S) Programme is a five-year initiative led by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. It seeks to strengthen women-owned and women-led businesses across Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, with a particular focus on enterprises operating in rural and peri-urban communities.

Rather than offering one-time assistance, the programme works with entrepreneurs to improve how they run and grow their businesses. Participants receive tailored support that addresses common growth barriers, including business planning, operational efficiency, market access, and long-term sustainability.

The broader goal is to help women-led businesses expand while creating meaningful employment opportunities for young women across participating countries.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to eligible women-led businesses that satisfy the programme requirements. While the organisers assess each application individually, applicants are generally expected to:

• Own or lead a women-led business.
• Operate in one of the programme’s participating countries.
• Demonstrate the potential to grow and create employment.
• Complete the official application form and provide the required business information.

Applicants should carefully review all eligibility requirements before submitting an application, as additional conditions may apply depending on their country and business stage.

Benefits of Participating

Businesses selected for the programme can access a range of valuable growth resources, including:

• Tailored business development support.
• Capacity-building workshops and practical training.
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Technical assistance to strengthen business operations.
• Opportunities to connect with business support organizations and strategic networks.
• Guidance that prepares businesses for long-term growth and expansion.

For many entrepreneurs, these resources can be just as valuable as direct funding because they help build stronger systems that support sustainable business growth.

Deadline and How to Apply

Applications for the Mastercard Foundation & WUSC Business Support Pathways to Scale Programme 2026 close on 31 July 2026. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Applications must be completed through the official online application form:

Official Application Link: https://form.jotform.com/261136094335555

If you lead a women-owned business with ambitions to grow, improve your operations, and reach new markets, the Pathways to Scale Programme offers practical support that can help you move your business to the next stage.

You can learn more abou thte Masercard Foundation Pathway to Scale HERE

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