Minister Warns Against Extortion in GROW Business Grant Application Process

Mercy Faith Lakisa, the Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, has issued a strong caution to local government officials against any form of extortion, corruption, or misinformation concerning the GROW Business Plan Competition Grants. During a regional orientation meeting in Gulu City, Minister Lakisa emphasized that no woman entrepreneur should be charged any fee to apply for or receive these grants. She stated unequivocally that the application process is 100% free.

Minister Lakisa urged Resident District Commissioners, district chairpersons, chief administrative officers, commercial officers, and other key community leaders to remain vigilant. Their role is crucial in protecting women entrepreneurs from individuals who might exploit them by demanding payments for application assistance or promising funding. “Protect our women entrepreneurs from extortionists and fraudsters,” she urged the leaders, highlighting their position as trusted community custodians.

She further stressed the importance of transparency and accurate information dissemination. Leaders are tasked with ensuring that eligible women understand the grant requirements and that those who do not qualify are informed to avoid false expectations. The GROW Business Plan Competition Grants aim to bridge gaps identified during the previous GROW Loan implementation, where many viable women entrepreneurs could not access financing due to financial constraints or stringent banking requirements.

These grants offer non-repayable funding for business expansion, formalisation, equipment, and working capital, with amounts ranging from Shs3.5 million to Shs107.07 million. Women who previously benefited from the GROW Loan are ineligible for these grants, a distinction leaders must clearly communicate. The initiative targets at least 2,626 women-owned enterprises nationwide, with special provisions for those in refugee-hosting districts, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable groups.

Minister Lakisa directed commercial and focal point officers to expedite local registration and documentation processes for applicants. Business clinics will be organized to assist entrepreneurs in preparing proposals and budgets. She concluded by stating that the success of the grants hinges on the leaders’ commitment to ensuring the funding reaches determined, innovative women who can utilize it to grow their businesses and contribute to Uganda’s economic development.

Source: Nile Post