Greening ESOs
Resources, insights, and practical guidance to help entrepreneurship support organizations engage in 'greening': taking the ESO business model and systematically integrating more environmentally sustainable principles and activities into their operations, programming, and support to entrepreneurs.
Why Greening Matters
As climate challenges intensify and economic conditions evolve, entrepreneurship ecosystems across Africa have a critical opportunity to respond. While some ESOs already support climate-focused or circular businesses, greening is not only relevant to green sectors. Traditional businesses are also feeling the effects of climate risks and shifting market expectations. With the right support, they too can contribute to environmental sustainability and build resilience.
For ESOs, greening offers strategic value in expanding services, unlocking climate-focused funding, and strengthening their position in a changing landscape. It is both a timely response and a path to greater relevance.
What we Mean by Greening
Greening is not a one-size-fits-all approach. For ESOs, it is about recognizing where environmental impact intersects with their work, and identifying practical, meaningful actions that can support sustainable growth.
1.
GREENING ALL BUSINESSES
Supporting not only green enterprises but also traditional businesses to adopt more sustainable practices and respond to climate risks.
2.
EMBEDDING SUSTAINABILITY IN SUPPORT SERVICES
Helping entrepreneurs integrate efficiency, reduce waste, and explore sustainability certifications through tailored business support.
3.
GREENING INTERNAL OPERATIONS
Improving environmental footprints of ESOs via better procurement, reduced travel, efficient energy use, ESG-aligned practices, etc.
4.
STRENGTHENING ESO ADVISORY CAPACITY
Equipping ESOs to guide entrepreneurs on environmental topics, while gradually building technical specialization and expertise.
Featured Resources
Greening ESOs: Key Insights and Recommendations
A foundational study exploring how ESOs across Africa are approaching sustainability. Based on interviews with funders, hubs, and businesses, the report offers definitions, the value of greening for ESOs and businesses, easy entry points, opportunities for action.
Gender Inclusion in 6 Green Sectors
Coming soon :)
Gender Inclusion in 6 Green Sectors
A curated database of funders, programs, and finance mechanisms focused on supporting green entrepreneurship in Africa — from climate funds to blended finance models.
An Invitation to Collaborate
We believe there is an opportunity for ESOs, funders, and ecosystem actors to work together to make environmental sustainability a more integrated part of entrepreneurship support. If you are developing a program, conducting research, or exploring how to strengthen your organization’s work in this space, we would love to connect. Please reach out to Rizwaan Khambata.
