Investment Process

Your step-by-step guide to investing in West Africa with IPAWAS support and coordination

Streamlined Investment Journey

8 clear steps from initial research to successful project launch with comprehensive IPAWAS support

1

Initial Research & Market Analysis

Begin your investment journey with comprehensive market research and opportunity identification across West Africa's 15 dynamic markets.

  • Market opportunity assessment
  • Sector analysis and trends
  • Competitive landscape review
  • Initial feasibility study
Duration: 2-4 weeks
2

Country Selection & Comparative Analysis

Use our comparative analysis tools and expert guidance to select the optimal country or countries for your investment based on your specific criteria.

  • Multi-country comparison matrix
  • Risk assessment analysis
  • Incentive package evaluation
  • Market entry strategy options
Duration: 1-2 weeks
3

Due Diligence & Legal Review

Conduct thorough due diligence with support from local IPAs and legal experts to ensure compliance and minimize risks.

  • Legal and regulatory framework review
  • Tax implications analysis
  • Environmental and social impact assessment
  • Risk mitigation strategies
Duration: 3-6 weeks
4

Partner Identification & Matching

Connect with pre-qualified local partners, suppliers, and stakeholders through our extensive network and partner matching services.

  • Local partner identification
  • Supplier and vendor assessment
  • Joint venture opportunity evaluation
  • Strategic partnership agreements
Duration: 2-4 weeks
5

Regulatory Approvals & Permits

Navigate regulatory requirements efficiently with dedicated support from country IPAs and our coordinated approval processes.

  • Investment approval applications
  • Business registration and licensing
  • Environmental and sector permits
  • Tax registration and incentives
Duration: 4-8 weeks
6

Project Setup & Establishment

Establish your investment project with comprehensive support for infrastructure, staffing, and operational setup.

  • Site selection and acquisition
  • Infrastructure development planning
  • Local team recruitment and training
  • Supply chain establishment
Duration: 6-12 weeks
7

Operations Launch & Go-to-Market

Launch your operations with continued support for market entry, distribution channels, and initial scaling strategies.

  • Operational launch support
  • Market entry strategy execution
  • Distribution channel development
  • Performance monitoring setup
Duration: 2-4 weeks
8

After-care Services & Expansion

Receive ongoing support for growth, expansion, and optimization through our comprehensive after-care services program.

  • Ongoing operational support
  • Expansion opportunity identification
  • Policy advocacy and representation
  • Network access and collaboration
Duration: Ongoing

Required Documentation

Comprehensive checklists for smooth application and approval processes

Company Documents

  • Certificate of incorporation
  • Articles of association
  • Board resolutions
  • Audited financial statements (3 years)
  • Tax clearance certificates
  • Corporate profile and organization chart

Investment Proposal

  • Detailed business plan
  • Project feasibility study
  • Financial projections (5 years)
  • Market analysis report
  • Technical specifications
  • Implementation timeline

Financial Documentation

  • Proof of funds/bank statements
  • Investment commitment letters
  • Financing agreements
  • Currency exchange documentation
  • Insurance policies
  • Financial guarantees

Personnel & Management

  • Management team CVs
  • Professional qualifications
  • Reference letters
  • Work permit applications
  • Training and development plans
  • Local hiring commitments

Environmental & Social

  • Environmental impact assessment
  • Social impact analysis
  • Community consultation reports
  • Sustainability commitments
  • Waste management plans
  • Corporate social responsibility strategy

Legal & Compliance

  • Legal opinion letters
  • Compliance certificates
  • Intellectual property documentation
  • Contract templates
  • Dispute resolution agreements
  • Regulatory compliance plans

Expected Processing Times

Typical timeframes for investment processes vary by country, sector, and project complexity

2-4 weeks
Initial Assessment
4-8 weeks
Due Diligence
6-12 weeks
Regulatory Approval
3-6 months
Project Setup

*Timeframes may vary based on project complexity, country-specific requirements, and completeness of documentation

IPAWAS Support Services

Comprehensive support throughout your investment journey

Investment Facilitation

End-to-end support for your investment journey from initial inquiry to project completion with dedicated relationship managers.

Partner Matching

Connect with pre-qualified local partners, suppliers, and stakeholders through our extensive network across the region.

Documentation Support

Assistance with application preparation, document review, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Site Selection

Expert guidance on optimal location selection based on your industry requirements, logistics, and strategic objectives.

Capacity Building

Training and development programs for local teams, knowledge transfer, and skills development initiatives.

After-care Services

Ongoing support for operational challenges, expansion opportunities, and policy advocacy to ensure long-term success.

Online Application Portal

Submit your investment applications digitally through our integrated regional platform

Digital Submission

Upload documents and submit applications online with real-time status tracking

Multi-Country Support

Single platform for applications across all 15 ECOWAS member countries

Real-time Updates

Receive notifications and updates on your application progress and requirements

Expert Support

Access to investment advisors and country specialists throughout the process

Ready to Start Your Investment Journey?

Get personalized guidance and support for your West Africa investment plans