Shecluded, a female-focused finance and capacity-building company dedicated to unlocking economic prosperity for African female entrepreneurs, has achieved significant milestones. The company has successfully trained over 50,000 women across four African countries, disbursed over $4 million to women-led businesses, and established a co-working space in Lagos, Nigeria, which currently serves as a hub for over 1,000 women annually.
Their journey to champion financial inclusion and entrepreneurial growth has been both rewarding and transformative. Supporting these entrepreneurs across diverse sectors has provided invaluable insights and lessons. Below are some key takeaways from our work:
1. Capital Access Requires Holistic Solutions, Not Just Funding
Capital access remains the most critical hurdle for women entrepreneurs, but solving this challenge requires more than just loans. Many women entrepreneurs need a combination of capital, capacity-building, and financial planning to fully leverage funding opportunities. Without a foundation of business skills and strategy, access to capital often results in short-lived gains.
Shecluded’s approach combines tailored funding, financial literacy, and advisory services to maximize the long-term impact of financing.
Testimonial:
Shecluded not only funded my business but also helped me create a sustainable growth plan. Today, I manage my growth better and make informed decisions.
2. Entrepreneurial Success is Built on Systems and Strategy, Not Just Hard Work
Hard work alone doesn’t guarantee business success—systems, processes, and strategic planning are what differentiate high-growth businesses from struggling ones. Many entrepreneurs initially run their businesses informally without proper structures. Through operations training, Shecluded helps women design scalable business models, implement better record-keeping, and optimize business operations to achieve consistent growth.
Testimonial:
The systems I learned through Shecluded have transformed my operations. I’ve moved from manual bookkeeping to automated systems that save me hours each week.
3. Collaborative Ecosystems Drive Faster Growth
Individual success is often dependent on collective support. We have seen women entrepreneurs accelerate their growth by engaging with peers, mentors, and collaborative ecosystems. The exchange of ideas, advice, and referrals drives innovation and opens new doors that would be difficult to unlock in isolation.
Shecluded has built entrepreneurial ecosystems through structured peer networks, mentorship programs, and industry roundtables, allowing women to share resources, learn from experienced professionals, and access opportunities faster.
Testimonial:
I met two business partners through a Shecluded networking event. Their advice and support have been instrumental in expanding my brand.
4. Personal and Cultural Barriers Are as Limiting as Structural Ones
Access to resources is important, but personal beliefs and cultural expectations can also limit women’s ability to succeed. Many women entrepreneurs juggle multiple roles at home and in their communities, often placing their businesses second. Additionally, societal pressures sometimes discourage women from taking on leadership roles.
Shecluded has worked to reshape mindsets through mentorship and capacity-building programs, helping women develop confidence, leadership skills, and strategies for work-life integration.
Testimonial:
For years, I underestimated my potential. Through Shecluded, I’ve learned to see myself as a business leader and not just a small business owner.
5. Technology Adoption is Essential for Business Survival in the Modern Economy
The businesses that thrive in today’s competitive landscape are those that embrace technology to increase efficiency, expand customer reach, and scale operations. However, many women entrepreneurs lack the access or skills to fully leverage digital tools.
Shecluded has integrated digital literacy and technology training into its programs, helping entrepreneurs adopt online platforms, ecommerce solutions, and marketing tools to future-proof their businesses.
Testimonial:
Thanks to Shecluded’s tech training, I launched an online store that now generates 60% of my monthly sales.
CEO’s Perspective
Ifeoma Uddoh, CEO of Shecluded, shares:
~70% of the African population is under 30 years old.~48% under the age of 17 years old.The heightened economic and social condition is undermining the family unit, and as a result, more women are responsible for shaping their children’s lives, particularly in the absence of a structured social welfare system in Africa.No doubt, Women are the gatekeepers of one of Africa’s most valuable and promising resources: its youth.
The Road Ahead for 2025: Scaling Impact
Reaching 50,000 women entrepreneurs is a milestone to be proud of, but it is only the beginning. In 2025, Shecluded is committed to:Expanding access to capital through a wider range of financial products.
Advocating for policy reforms to create systemic change with industry stakeholders.
Leveraging technology to scale programs and train an additional 10,000 women this year.
Building stronger ecosystems that foster collaboration, mentorship, and support for women entrepreneurs.
Shecluded remains committed to its core mission: unlocking opportunities and driving long-term economic growth for African women. The organization invites stakeholders, partners, and allies to join forces in this collective effort to create a more equitable and prosperous future for women across the continent.
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