New Programme: ASPIRE-VP – Addressing Social Development & Protection through Venture Philanthropy

Alfanar is accepting applications for our new ASPIRE-VP programme, Addressing Social Development and Protection In the Region through Venture Philanthropy. This programme is implemented with support from the European Regional Development and Protection Programme for Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq (RDPP III).

This programme is focused on increasing employment, creating decent jobs, and improving livelihoods for vulnerable communities in Lebanon and Jordan. By supporting locally-led social enterprises (SEs), the programme aims to drive systemic change, foster sustainable solutions, and empower marginalised groups, including women, youth, migrants, and refugees.

ASPIRE-VP is committed to scaling impactful enterprises that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals – particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality), through targeted financial and technical support.

SEED Cycle

The ASPIRE-VP SEED programme will support 20 early stage social enterprises (10 per country) over a period of 6 months through: $15k in funding, training on 5 modules, customised 1-2-1 business management support and a follow-up period covering monitoring, evaluation and reporting. High potential enterprises will be selected from the SEED cycles to enter the next stage of the process of long-term business planning, with a potential to secure further funding to scale impact and financial sustainability.

We are looking for social enterprises in Lebanon and Jordan that share our values and exhibit the following requirements:

Legally registered in Lebanon/Jordan and has been operational and generating revenue for at least 2 years

Has a model that is focused on supporting people from vulnerable communities/refugees in:

- Trainings: apprenticeships, then job placements

- Income generation opportunities (eg. supporting home-based businesses)

Has a clear social or social & environmental impact that is measurable and scalable and benefits a minimum of 20 people to date, with a plan to grow impact

Is able to create internal decent job opportunities for a minimum of 2 persons

Addresses at least one of these Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 10 and SDG 12

Apply for the SEED Cycle in English or Arabic by 18 January.

SUSTAIN Cycle

The ASPIRE-VP SUSTAIN programme will support up to 8 growth-stage social enterprises (up to four per country) for up to two years. Upon completing a long-term social business plan, successful applicants will receive: up to $100k in financial support, customized management and technical support and networking opportunities, which could include regional market exploration and learning exchange trips.

We are looking for social enterprises in Lebanon and Jordan that share our values and exhibit the following requirements:

Legally registered in Lebanon/Jordan and has been operational and generating revenue for at least 2 years

Has a model that is focused on supporting people from vulnerable communities/refugees in:

- Trainings: apprenticeships, then job placements

- Income generation opportunities (eg. supporting home-based businesses)

Has clear social or social & environmental impact that is measurable and scalable and benefits a minimum of 50 people to date, with a plan to grow impact

Is able to create internal decent job opportunities for a minimum of 4 persons

Covers, on average, at least 40% of operational costs through its self-generated income

Addresses at least one of these Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 10 and SDG 12

Apply for the SUSTAIN Cycle in English or Arabic by 18 January.

If you have any questions or need further support, contact our team at [email protected]. Please read the application pack carefully to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements. Due to the high number of applications we will receive, only successful applicants will be contacted.