RTA Afrishela Investor Readiness Program

Programme Background

Women are increasingly shaping Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, but their participation as investors remains an opportunity to unlock. Rising Tide Africa (RTA) is working to change that by creating pathways for more women to become confident angel investors and play a greater role in directing early-stage capital.

Founded in 2016, RTA is a women’s angel investment network with more than 100 active angels across African markets. To date, the network has facilitated 39 deals worth approximately US$2.24 million, supporting business growth while strengthening women’s participation in Africa’s investment ecosystem.

The RTA Afrishela Investor Readiness Program is an initiative of RTA in partnership with Afrishela, promoted by the Graça Machel Trust, focused on increasing women’s participation in angel investing and improving access to early-stage capital for women-led and gender-responsive businesses across Kenya and South Africa.

The programme is an 8-week investor education pathway that combines self-paced learning with weekly live masterclasses covering angel investing fundamentals, deal evaluation, due diligence, deal terms, and investment thesis development, culminating in a live Mock Pitch Day. Graduates join RTA’s active angel network, are paired with a mentor, and are invited to the programme’s first live Deal Day.

Eligibility: women in Kenya and South Africa, including the relevant diaspora (open to both first-time and experienced angel investors).

Who can apply?

Women in Kenya and South Africa, and the related diaspora, interested in building confidence and capability in angel investing. Both first-time and experienced investors are welcome.

Do I need prior angel investing experience?

No. The programme is designed for both women new to angel investing and those looking to deepen existing investing experience.

What does the programme involve?

An investor readiness journey combining self-paced learning with weekly live masterclasses, covering everything from angel investing fundamentals to due diligence, deal terms, and building an investment thesis, culminating in a live Mock Pitch Day.

How long does it run?

8 weeks, one 90-minute live session per week, plus self-paced learning.

Is it in-person or online?

Virtual-first: Live sessions online, with foundational content delivered through RTA’s learning platform.

What happens after I apply?

Applications are screened, and a cohort is selected. Selected participants are onboarded ahead of the programme start.

What do I get out of it?

A written personal investment thesis, exposure to a curated pipeline of investment-ready, women-led businesses, and membership in RTA’s active angel network, including a buddy pairing and invitation to a live Deal Day.

Is there a cost to apply?

No. There is no cost to apply.

What is the application deadline?

28 August 2026.

Who is running this programme?

Rising Tide Africa, in partnership with the Graça Machel Trust, through the Afrishela initiative.

Register here before the applications close on 28 August 2026.