In partnership with the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE) and The Broker, we are embarking on a groundbreaking study titled “Empowering women in Solar: Advancing opportunities for women- led clean energy enterprises in South Africa” which explores how entrepreneur support organisations (ESOs) can better support women entrepreneurs in the solar energy sector.

Preliminary findings reveal deep barriers like limited access to capital, cultural restrictions, and systemic bias. Our goal is to turn insights into action by co-developing practical tools and resources for inclusive enterprise support. Through literature reviews, surveys, case studies, and a multi-stakeholder dialogue, the research will produce an insight paper, dialogue report as well as a practical, tested Gender-Responsive Support Toolkit which will be piloted through the SiAWECCA programme.