Our Empowering Sustainable Livelihoods Grant (ESLG) is a transformative funding initiative designed to support women-led and community-based efforts that drive economic empowerment, resilience, and self-reliance. Through targeted grantmaking and tailored technical assistance, ESLG provides recipients with the tools, resources, and confidence to build sustainable income-generating activities and improve household well-being.
This grant opportunity extends beyond financial support—it fosters agency, inclusion, and innovation. By pairing flexible funding with skills training, mentoring, and market linkages, ESLG helps women and vulnerable groups expand their livelihood potential in ways that are locally relevant and economically viable.
The Empowering Sustainable Livelihoods Grant (ESLG) supports diverse, high-impact initiatives that help women and communities build long-term economic resilience. Below are the key focus areas eligible for support under the ESLG program.
Supports women-led farming, agro-processing, and food value chain initiatives to boost income and enhance local food systems.
Funds small businesses and vocational startups such as tailoring, hairdressing, catering, and carpentry that promote self-employment and household income.
Backs sustainable projects like recycling, eco-crafts, and clean energy solutions that address climate challenges while creating jobs.
Supports women’s groups and cooperatives engaged in shared business ventures, savings schemes, or community-driven economic projects.
The ESLG is open to both individuals and community-based groups who meet the following requirements:
Ensure you or your group meet the grant requirements, including target beneficiary status, project focus, and location.
Draft a brief concept note outlining your livelihood idea, target beneficiaries, expected impact, and budget estimate.
Fill out the ESLG online or paper-based application form, including all required documents such as ID, community endorsement, or business plan.
Submit your full application through the designated platform or local submission center before the closing date.
Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted. Successful applicants will be contacted for interviews or onboarding.
The SIYB Toolkit, developed by the International Labour Organization (ILO), is a practical tool designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs assess their readiness to start or expand small businesses. It guides users through key areas like idea generation, market planning, budgeting, and operations.
For ESLG applicants, the toolkit offers a simple way to reflect on your business goals, understand your capacity, and strengthen your application. We recommend the “Start Your Business” module for individuals and groups at the early stages of setting up an income-generating activity.
Using the SIYB Toolkit helps ensure your proposal is realistic, impactful, and aligned with long-term sustainability.
Across Liberia, the Empowering Sustainable Livelihoods Grant (ESLG) is transforming lives—supporting women and communities to launch, grow, and sustain income-generating activities. Here are a few stories that reflect the spirit and impact of the ESLG initiative.
