This study evaluates forms of cooperation between Agricultural Training Centres (ATCs) and the Private Sector (PS) using Ostrom’s Institutional Analysis and Development Framework. Cooperation depends on actors’ relationships, costs and benefits, and contextual factors such as policies and reputation. Willingness to cooperate is shaped by mutual perceptions and the perceived risks and benefits. The study then explores how cooperation can empower young women and support gender-transformative change, defined as dismantling structures reinforcing gender inequality. It uses the “four quadrants of change” and examines the perceptions of female trainees and entrepreneurs. Methods include stakeholder analysis, surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, Netmapping, and a SWOT analysis across Benin and Togo. Findings show a shared goal: training young people for employment or entrepreneurship. ATCs must adapt curricula and teaching to include practical and entrepreneurial skills. However, mismatches exist: small firms often prefer unskilled labor and see trainees as future competitors. Positive drivers include recognition of mutual benefit, networking, and knowledge exchange. Barriers include limited formalization, costs, role ambiguity, negative past experiences, and weak political frameworks. Gender-related analysis highlights growing participation of girls, but also challenges in accommodation, perception, and role models. Opportunities exist if conditions are adapted to girls’ needs. The SWOT analysis identifies synergies and contradictions in cooperation and gender goals. Final recommendations from a multi-stakeholder workshop include mobilizing local resources, improving dialogue, incentivizing cooperation, enhancing training quality, and enabling gender-transformative change. The ATVET project’s next cycle is an opportunity to integrate these recommendations.