The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Liberia has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Liberian entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as key drivers of inclusive growth and national transformation under the ARREST Agenda.

Speaking at the final pitch and selection ceremony for Growth Accelerator Liberia – Cohort V, UNDP Resident Representative Aliou Mamadou Dia emphasized that the program’s impact goes far beyond competition—it is an investment in Liberia’s future.

“This program is not just about winning,” Dia stated. “By participating, you are contributing to Liberia’s journey toward sustainable development. Whether you win or not, you are already part of the future we envision.”

Dia underscored the critical role of the private sector as the backbone of Liberia’s economy, noting that entrepreneurs are central to job creation, innovation, and inclusive growth. 

He encouraged participants to pitch with conviction, adding, “You are the forerunners of the ARREST Agenda. We have major projects ahead, and your ideas matter.”

About Growth Accelerator Liberia

Growth Accelerator Liberia is a flagship initiative led by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) in partnership with UNDP and other development partners. Since its inception in 2021, the program has supported over 104 MSMEs and cooperatives, providing more than USD 2.3 million in co-financing grants, mentorship, and technical assistance to help high-potential businesses scale sustainably.

Cohort V represents the latest group of entrepreneurs selected through a rigorous, transparent process to receive tailored support, including business planning guidance, mentorship, and access to critical financing.

“Entrepreneurship is central to Liberia’s national transformation,” said Deputy Minister Tarnue N. Jeke, speaking on behalf of Commerce Minister Magdalene E. Dagoseh. 

“Growth Accelerator Liberia is building a pipeline of investable businesses ready to scale and contribute meaningfully to our economy.”

Jeke highlighted the program’s alignment with the ARREST Agenda, particularly its focus on women- and youth-led enterprises, green value chains, and regional inclusion.

Cohort V: A Showcase of Innovation and Impact

Out of 209 applications from 13 counties, 18 promising businesses were shortlisted through a multi-stage vetting process facilitated by the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL). 

These ventures underwent mentorship, due diligence, and business planning before presenting their growth strategies. 

“These 18 businesses will pitch for a chance to access USD 10,000 grants, mentorship, and technical support,” said Luther D. Jeke, CEO of iCampus Liberia, which manages the program’s implementation.

Selected ventures include Angea Agro Hub Inc., Choices Liberia Limited, James’ Healthline Liberia Limited, JBC Enterprise, Afro Resources Inc., Leelah Group of Companies, Liberia Agri-Processing Venture (LAP Venture), Harvesting Hope Enterprise, Youth Agribusiness for Liberian Indigenous Vegetable and Green Investment, among others.

Growth Accelerator Liberia is a public-private initiative led by MOCI in partnership with UNDP and development partners. The program supports innovative, scalable Liberian ventures with mentorship, due diligence, and co-financing grants to expand productivity, employment, and inclusive growth.

The programme targets post-revenue businesses and cooperatives across all sectors, offering co-financing grants of up to USD 40,000, along with mentorship and technical assistance to help them scale and create jobs.