Is your business
ready to grow?
Join the AGAR Mentorship Program and get a dedicated local expert and diaspora mentor working alongside you for 3 to 6 months.
R&D Group in partnership with SNV LIWAY
About the Program
What is AGAR
AGAR (Advancing Growth through Actionable Relationships) pairs Ethiopian MSMEs and startups with local and diaspora mentors to improve revenue growth, business governance, and investment readiness.
Founders and a core team member receive structured, accountable support through regular sessions, peer circles, and masterclasses, leaving the programme with concrete deliverables matched to their business stage.
What to Expect
Your support package
Eligibility Self-Check
Before you apply — is AGAR right for you?
Answer these questions honestly. If you can say yes to most of them, we want to hear from you. The program is designed for businesses that are ready to act, not just think.
About Your Business
My business has been operating for at least 6 months
We look for businesses that have passed the idea stage and are already serving customers or generating revenue.
I have an active product or service with real customers
Your business must be selling something — even at early stage — not still in planning or pre-launch.
About Your Commitment
Committed to consistent engagement
Bi-weekly 1.5-hour sessions, monthly triad meetings with both mentors, and active engagement in peer-to-peer learning events.
My co-founder or a key team member can also participate
At least one team member joining ensures knowledge stays in the business — not only with the founder.
I have access to a device and internet for virtual sessions
Sessions are delivered via Zoom, Google Meet, or Teams. You need a smartphone or computer with a stable internet connection.
About Your Growth Ambition
I have a specific challenge I want to solve
Mentorship works best when you come with a real problem — financial management, growing sales, entering new markets, or preparing for investment.
I am open to feedback and committed to taking action
Mentors guide, challenge, and hold you accountable. You need to be ready to act on what you learn between sessions.
I want to grow my revenue or prepare for investment
The program targets at least 10% revenue growth and one new job within 12 months.
Priority Sectors
Who should apply
Businesses in all sectors are welcome. These sectors receive priority consideration:
Expected Outcomes (Within 12 Months)
What success looks like
≥10%
Revenue growth
Target for 70% of participating enterprises
1+
New job created
Plus 4 existing jobs improved per enterprise
75%
Improved governance
Documented SOPs, team roles, and management systems
25%
Investment-ready
Pitch deck, financial model, and investor introduction
Mentorship Packages
Matched to your stage
Package placement is determined by your diagnostic assessment — not self-selected.
Foundation — 3 months
Business structure, compliance & financial literacy
Launch — 4 months
Market entry, customer acquisition & revenue growth
Scale — 6 months
Operations, governance & investment readiness
Priority Consideration
At least 70% of cohort places are reserved for women and youth-led businesses, as we are committed to supporting inclusive economic growth and empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Not Ready Yet?
If your business is too early-stage or you cannot commit the time right now, that is okay. Join the SHARE platform for free e-learning, expert content, and networking — and apply for a future AGAR cohort when you are ready.
Ready? Apply now.
Application deadline: XX XXXX 2026