ECA–DHL trade training applications close September 18
Applications for ECA–DHL online trade training close on September 18, 2026. The October–December programme prioritises women and youth entrepreneurs from registered African businesses.
In short
- Applications for ECA–DHL online trade training close on September 18, 2026.
- The October–December programme prioritises women and youth entrepreneurs from registered African businesses.
African small-business owners and managers have until September 18, 2026 to apply for online cross-border trade training developed by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and DHL GoTrade, according to ECA’s official call for applications.
The course is scheduled for October–December 2026 and gives priority to women and youth entrepreneurs. Applicants must own or manage a registered micro, small or medium-sized enterprise operating in an African country, demonstrate an interest in cross-border or digital trade, and commit to the virtual sessions. Ethiopian enterprises meeting those conditions fall within the programme’s stated geographic eligibility.
ECA says participants will study customs, logistics, export readiness, e-commerce and trade finance, alongside regional integration frameworks including the African Continental Free Trade Area. The English-language course comprises seven modules of two and a half hours each, with cohorts of 25 to 40 entrepreneurs.
The training is part of a wider partnership reported by The Reporter on September 14, 2026. The Ethiopian newspaper said ECA and DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa had signed a three-year memorandum of understanding covering business capacity building, digital transformation, research and knowledge sharing. Its report did not specify the signing date.
The Reporter described the virtual training as the partners’ first flagship activity. It reported that the collaboration seeks to address practical barriers facing businesses expanding into neighbouring markets, including unfamiliar customs requirements, logistics arrangements and regulatory systems.
For prospective participants, the immediate step is to consult ECA’s application notice before the September 18 deadline. The notice provides the programme’s eligibility conditions and organiser contact details.
