The Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access Programme (ATCMA–ECCAS) has officially opened applications for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Central Africa. Funded by the European Union (EU), this initiative focuses on boosting business competitiveness and expanding market access for key agricultural and forestry value chains.
The programme is jointly implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in partnership with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).
Key Support & Benefits
Selected participants will receive tailored technical assistance and capacity-building resources, including:
- Quality & Standards: Assistance with quality assurance, industry certifications, and product traceability.
- Modernization & Digitalization: Business diagnostic assessments, process improvement support, and digital adoption strategies.
- Market Access & Networking: Export development support, technical coaching, and participation in international trade fairs, exhibitions, and B2B matchmaking events.
Targeted Sectors & Eligibility
The programme targets formal and informal value-chain actors operating within ECCAS member countries in three primary sectors:
- Timber / Wood
- Cocoa
- Cassava
Eligible entities include:
- Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
- Producers and farming cooperatives
- Processors and manufacturers
- Exporters and trade associations
Objectives & Selection Process
This call forms part of a broader 2025–2029 EU initiative designed to foster regional industrial development and sustainable trade. Through an initial regional questionnaire/survey, the programme aims to:
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- Map active businesses across the target value chains.
- Identify core investment needs and structural constraints.
- Guide targeted technical assistance and future funding interventions.
Note: Completing the assessment questionnaire is a required mapping step and does not automatically guarantee selection or technical funding support.
How to Apply
Interested Applicants can complete the official ATCMA–ECCAS questionnaire here: https://surveys.intracen.org/response/G2tIYntaQAICZ1txUVVzS0d8d3w on or before the deadline of August 7, 2026 (11:59 PM GMT+1).
(Note: While the article text states August 7, 2026, the official promotional graphic lists August 21, 2026. Applicants are strongly advised to complete the submission before August 7 to ensure full consideration.)
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
