Do you have an agribusiness with a climate-smart innovative solution? Apply for funding and business development support from CGIAR before 8 January 2024
Do you have an agribusiness with a climate-smart innovative solution? Apply for funding and business development support from CGIAR before 8 January 2024
The Consultative Group of International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), a global research partnership that unites organizations engaged in research on food security, invites applicants for the CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator program. The program aims to support agribusiness in scaling climate-smart innovations to solve pressing challenges in agribusiness value chains.
Successful applicants to the program will receive the following benefits:
- Technical assistance from CGIAR scientists that encourages agribusinesses’ adoption and strengthens their compliance, safety, and accountability practices.
- Technical assistance on impact measurement and management (IMM) from CGIAR scientists and experts.
- Technical assistance on investment readiness from CGIAR partners and its network to help secure private sector financing.
- Provision of a de-risking Grant of USD 20,000 to four successful companies at the end of the program.
- Access to investors and corporate partners to attract follow-on funding and potential business opportunities.
Interested agribusinesses must fulfill the following to apply:
- Be legally registered and compliant with regulatory authorities. Applicants should present the following supporting information:
- A Certificate of Incorporation for a Limited Company or Partnership Deed for a Partnership Business.
- Two years of audited accounts.
- Contact details of the company’s references.
- Team composition.
- Curriculum Vitae for the management team.
- Tax Compliance Certificate.
- Have a clear inclusive strategy for smallholder farmers, women, and youth within the business model in at least one of the dimensions: ownership, management team, workforce and policies, supply chain, and/or customers.
- Be a for-profit company and demonstrate commercial viability and either be profitable or on the path to profitability. NGOs, corporate companies, and consultants will not be considered
- Be operating in the following countries: Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia
For more information on the program, visit: CGIAR Food Systems Accelerator
To apply, visit: Application
Do you have a business that operates in agriculture, food processing, distribution or related sectors? Apply for funding from the Support for Early-Stage Businesses program.
Do you have a business that operates in agriculture, food processing, distribution or related sectors? Apply for funding from the Support for Early-Stage Businesses program.
The Africa Agriculture Development Company (AADC), a United Kingdom investment company that has invested in over 50 companies, invites applicants for the Support for Early-Stage Businesses program.
The aim of the program is to foster entrepreneurship and innovation that can drive agricultural transformation across Africa. It targets startups and growing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operating in food production, processing, distribution and related sectors.
Successful applicants will benefit from the following:
- Seed capital investments ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 that do not need to be repaid if milestones are met
- Technical assistance to help businesses professionalize operations, strengthen management and access new markets
Interested applicants should meet the following criteria to apply:
- Be registered and operating legally in a sub-Saharan African country
- Be operational for less than five years
- Have a proven business model
- Demonstrate potential for long-term growth
- Demonstrate potential to positively impact people, economies and the environment
- Have annual revenues below USD 1,000,000
Priority will be given to women-led, youth-led and businesses in underserved regions/value chains
Interested applicants should contact investment@agdevco.com.
Are you a startup entrepreneur with a tech solution addressing challenges in the healthcare sector? Apply for the HealthTech Hub Africa (HTHA) Accelerator Program before 11 December 2023.
Are you a startup entrepreneur with a tech solution addressing challenges in the healthcare sector? Apply for the HealthTech Hub Africa (HTHA) Accelerator Program before 11 December 2023.
HealthTech Hub Africa, a hybrid pan-African healthtech accelerator invites applicants for the 2024 HealthTech Hub Africa (HTHA) Accelerator Program. The program is designed to provide startups with the necessary resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help them scale their solutions and make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector.
Successful applicants will receive the following benefits:
- Access to mentorship from industry experts
- Funding opportunities from investors
- Networking with key stakeholders in the healthcare and technology sectors
- Platform to showcase solutions to a wider audience
- Valuable insights into market trends and user needs
- Guidance on refining business models and growth strategies
Interested participants must fulfil the following requirements to apply:
- Be a health technology startup based in Africa
- Have a viable and innovative solution addressing a significant healthcare challenge
- Demonstrate strong potential for scalability and impact
- Have a minimum viable product (MVP) or prototype
- Have a dedicated and passionate team committed to driving the solution forward.
To apply for the program, visit: Application form
Do you have a solution that creates a positive social, economic, and environmental impact in your country? Apply for funding from the Global Innovation Fund.
Do you have a solution that creates a positive social, economic, and environmental impact in your country? Apply for funding from the Global Innovation Fund.
The Global Innovation Fund (GIF), an initiative aiming to support and scale innovative solutions to global development challenges, invites applicants for the 2023 edition. Launched in 2014, GIF provides funding, expertise, and networks to help innovators turn their ideas into impactful solutions. The primary aim of the Global Innovation Fund is to identify and support innovative ideas that have the potential to create positive social, economic, and environmental impact in developing countries.
The GIF program is designed to benefit individuals and organizations, including entrepreneurs, researchers, social enterprises, non-profit organizations, and government entities. The program mainly focuses on supporting innovations that address the needs of vulnerable populations, such as women, children, refugees, and those living in poverty.
Successful applicants to the program will receive the following:
- Funding at various stages of innovation, including seed, scale-up, and performance-based funding
- Access to a network of experts, mentors, and advisors who guide and support innovators. This includes technical expertise, business development support, and connections to potential partners and investors
- Learning and knowledge sharing among innovators through workshops, webinars, and peer-to-peer exchanges
Interested applicants must fulfil the following to be eligible for the GIF program:
- Be innovative, offering a new approach or significantly improving upon existing solutions
- Demonstrate the potential to create positive social, economic, or environmental impact, particularly in developing countries
- Have the potential to scale up and reach a large number of beneficiaries
- Have a clear plan for the financial sustainability of their innovation beyond the GIF funding
- Have a solution aligned with at least one of GIF’s focus areas: agriculture, energy, health, education, and governance
To apply for the GIF program, visit Applications.
Are you a social entrepreneur that addresses pressing needs in your community? Apply for funding from the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation
Are you a social entrepreneur that addresses pressing needs in your community? Apply for funding from the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation.
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK), a global venture philanthropy supporting early-stage, high-impact social enterprises, invites social entrepreneurs to apply for funding. The foundation seeks to support outsized impact through entrepreneurs and enterprises that address pressing societal problems affecting people.
The foundation seeks to find social enterprises that fulfil the following:
- Address a critical social or environmental issue as the focus of their work
- Have founders who intend to expand their impact significantly over time
- Be operating in Africa, Europe, India, Latin America, and the United States
- Be an independent non-profit or impact-first, mission-driven for-profit entity
- Have one or more founders who are full-time or intend to be
- Demonstrate diversity of people proximate to the problem at hand and a commitment to foster justice, equity, inclusion, and belonging practices
- Have a program, product or service already in the market with an early indication for impact
Applicants admitted for interviews will be taken through three phases of interviews to assess their eligibility for funding. Successful applicants will be accepted through a final due diligence phase to work towards clear goals for the new venture, including metrics and milestones to help the social enterprise achieve its mission.
Applicants that have successfully passed through all the interviews will receive funding twice a year over a three-year term, totalling USD 300,000.
To apply for the opportunity, visit: Application form
Do you have a solution with a significant positive impact on your community? Apply for funding from the Young Global Changemakers Recoupling Awards program before 27 November 2023.
Do you have a solution with a significant positive impact on your community? Apply for funding from the Young Global Changemakers Recoupling Awards program before 27 November 2023.
The Young Global Changemakers Recoupling Awards, a program that recognizes and supports youth entrepreneurs making a significant impact in their communities, invites applicants for its 2024 Award edition. The program aims to identify, celebrate, and empower young individuals who drive positive change in various fields such as social entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, education, technology, and more.
Selected participants of the Young Global Changemakers Recoupling Awards 2024 can expect to receive a range of benefits, including:
- Recognition and Visibility: The program offers a prestigious platform to showcase the work of young changemakers on a global scale, increasing their visibility and credibility.
- Networking Opportunities: Participants will have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, mentors, and experts from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaborations and partnerships.
- Capacity Building: The program provides access to various capacity-building resources, including workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs, to enhance participants’ skills and knowledge.
- Funding and Support: Selected changemakers may receive financial support, grants, or access to resources that can help scale their projects and initiatives.
Interested participants must meet the following to participate in the program:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of application
- Have a proven track record of creating positive change in their communities or fields of work
- Demonstrate innovative approaches and solutions to address pressing global challenges
- Be committed to driving sustainable and long-term impact through their projects or initiatives
To apply, visit: Application form
Are you an entrepreneur launching a product or looking to improve an existing one? Apply for funding and business development support from the Because Accelerator program.
Are you an entrepreneur launching a product or looking to improve an existing one? Apply for the Because Accelerator program.
Because International, a international organisation, invites applicants for the Because Accelerator program, an initiative designed to foster the growth and development of early-stage startups globally in various industries. The primary aim of this program is to provide entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and mentorship needed to transform their innovative ideas into thriving businesses.
Program participants will receive the following benefits:
- Financial support in the form of seed capital, key for product development, hiring talent, and scaling operations
- Mentorship and guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Access to a network of investors, potential partners, customers, and fellow entrepreneurs
- Education and training through workshops and educational sessions to help founders gain a deeper understanding of various aspects of running a successful business, from financial management to marketing and sales strategies
- Workspace and resources such as software, hardware, and legal support further reduce operational costs
Interested participants must fulfill the following to apply:
- Early-Stage: The program typically targets early-stage startups, often at the pre-seed or seed stage. However, some programs may consider startups at slightly more advanced stages as well.
- Innovative Idea: Startups must have a unique and innovative business idea or product that has the potential for scalability and growth.
- Dedication and Commitment: Founders and teams should demonstrate a high level of dedication, commitment, and passion for their venture.
- Coachability: Accelerator programs look for founders who are open to feedback, willing to learn, and adaptable. Coachability is often a crucial factor in the selection process.
- Market Potential: The startup’s target market should have significant potential for growth and expansion.
- Scalability: The business should have the potential to scale rapidly, and the accelerator program should be able to provide the necessary resources and support to facilitate this growth.
To apply for the program, visit Application form.
Are you an entrepreneur or business operating in the waste and circular economy sector? Apply for funding from the Circular Economy Programme before 23 October 2023
Are you an entrepreneur or business operating in the waste and circular economy sector? Apply for funding from the Circular Economy Programme before 23 October 2023
Ireme Invest, Rwanda’s Green Investment Facility, invites applicants for the Circular Economy Programme under the Project Preparation Facility. The programme aims to foster innovation, investment and collaborations across various sectors by supporting businesses working in the waste and circular economy sector.
Successful participants will benefit from the following:
- Expert mentorship for 15 weeks to enhance products or services and prepare them for market testing and fundraising
- Individual on-site coaching
- Grant investment funding of up to Rwf 60,000,000 for ten participating businesses based on achieved milestones
- Investor pitching and connection for ten supported businesses with investors in the sector
Interested participants must have businesses operating in the sector. Solutions should address plastics in construction, earth reinforcement, plastics in agriculture, non-biodegradable or non-recyclable packaging materials, payment systems for waste services, segregated household waste collection, circular product design, and reuse or refill systems.
For more information about the programme and application details, visit: Circular Economy Programme.
Interested in taking advantage of a training opportunity to help your business? Here are some tips for maximizing your chances to participate.
Interested in taking advantage of a training opportunity to help your business? Here are some tips for maximizing your chances to participate.
As an entrepreneur, seeking out training opportunities can be a valuable step towards enhancing your skills and knowledge, which in turn can help you grow your business. Unfortunately, most opportunities have limited spots and fierce competition, so maximising your chances of being selected for such programs is crucial. In this article, you’ll find five essential tips to increase your likelihood of securing a business development training opportunity.
- Thoroughly research the organization or institution offering the training: Before applying, gain a deep understanding of their mission, values, and the specific focus of their training. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your application to align with their objectives, increasing your chances of standing out as a suitable candidate. Most opportunities will focus on a specific sector or stage of business growth.
- Highlight relevant experience and skills: When applying, emphasize your relevant experience and skills that demonstrate your ability to drive business growth. Showcase any previous entrepreneurial ventures, leadership roles, or projects highlighting your expertise. By highlighting your accomplishments, you can effectively convey your potential to not only learn but also contribute to the program and the organization. If you do not have relevant experience or skills, express your willingness and demonstrate commitment to learn.
- Craft a compelling application: Take the time to create a well-written and tailored application that clearly articulates your motivation for applying. Explain how the training opportunity aligns with your goals and aspirations. Use specific examples and achievements to support your claims, showcasing your ability to apply business development strategies effectively. A compelling application will make you stand out from the competition.
- Network and seek recommendations: Leverage your professional network to gather information about the organization or institution offering the training opportunity. Seek recommendations from mentors, colleagues, or industry professionals who can vouch for your skills and potential. A strong recommendation can significantly enhance your application and increase your chances of being selected.
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews or assessments: If the selection process includes interviews or assessments, it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly. Research common interview questions related to business development and practice your responses. Familiarize yourself with case studies or business scenarios that may be presented during assessments. By being well-prepared, you can confidently showcase your knowledge and skills, leaving a lasting impression on the selection committee.
Securing a business development training opportunity can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs looking to enhance their skills and drive business growth. Do not be discouraged if you fail to land an application for an opportunity. Learn how to bounce back from rejected applications and learn from the mistakes. With careful planning and a proactive approach, you can increase your likelihood of being selected for a business development training opportunity. Good luck!
Are you an early-stage social enterprise interested in scaling? Apply for the BfE Incubation Programme before 1 October 2023
Are you an early-stage social enterprise interested in scaling? Apply for the BfE Incubation Programme before 1 October 2023
Bridges for Enterprise, a non-profit organization that provides pro bono advisory services to social innovators in the developing world, invites applicants for the BfE Incubation Programme. The programme lasts for 6 to 8 months, with multiple implementation stages customized to best support participants to scale their social enterprises. Applications are due 1 October 2023.
Through the programme, participants will be offered consulting and financial advisory services as well as optional legal and technical advisory services. Consulting, financial and legal advisory services will each have a 3 to 4 month timeline, while the technical advisory services will have a timeframe of 3 to 6 months.
The programme will accept social enterprises that demonstrate the following:
- A unique minimum viable product (MVP) that addresses one or more key development challenges
- Revenue-generating business model
- Generates positive environmental or social impact in the communities served
- Leadership team that demonstrates commitment
Additionally, the programme is suitable for social enterprises which fulfil the following:
- Be a for-profit or non-profit social enterprise
- Be an early-stage start-up at the pre-seed or seed stage
- Have an existing product or service and have started earning revenue
- Be legally established in Africa, Asia, Latin America or the Middle East
- Demonstrate a clear path to financial returns and impact
To apply for this programme, visit: Submit Application