Scheduled for October 8–9 in Tamale, the Inclusive Finance and Impact Investment Forum (IFIF) will spotlight the power of inclusive finance to transform small and growing businesses (SGBs) in the agri-food sector. Hosted by MEDA’s Greater Rural Opportunities for Women 2 (GROW2) project – funded by Global Affairs Canada – and the Department of Agribusiness at the University for Development Studies (UDS), this year’s forum is themed “Bridging the Financial Inclusion and Investment Gap: An Opportunity for Women-led Agribusiness in Northern Ghana.”

The conversation is urgent. Despite women’s critical role in driving food systems and rural livelihoods, persistent barriers to finance continue to limit their ability to scale. IFIF offers a timely platform for these entrepreneurs to engage investors and development partners, exchange practical insights, and shape more inclusive financing pathways for the region’s agri-food sector.

The Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE) –  West Africa Chapter is  returning as a strategic partner for the second consecutive year, reinforcing our commitment to strengthening the ecosystem of Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) that enable women entrepreneurs to thrive.

Through this partnership, ANDE continues to support platforms that bridge knowledge, capital, and collaboration gaps – helping women-led SGBs in Northern Ghana access the finance and networks they need to grow sustainably.