Agri-Food SME Catalytic Financing Mechanism (ACFM) Agri-SME Support Program: Seed Lab Third Call for Applications

The Seed Lab is a dynamic, cohort-based capacity-building initiative developed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) in collaboration with Open Capital. Drawing on decades of experience in supporting Agri-SMEs across Sub-Saharan Africa, this exclusive program is tailored to help entrepreneurs strengthen and scale their businesses. Over the course of approximately three months, participants receive expert guidance, practical training, and strategic insights to navigate challenges and unlock new growth opportunities. The program is designed to equip founders with the knowledge, tools, and networks needed to enhance their business operations, attract investment, and drive sustainable impact in the agricultural sector. By joining The Seed Lab, entrepreneurs gain invaluable support to accelerate their ventures and contribute to Africa’s food security and economic growth.

Join over 140 Agri-SMEs from 20+ countries as they dive deep into your business model, refine growth strategies, and prepare you to access finance and have deeper impact in your markets. Led by industry leaders, the Seed Lab equips you with essential skills in strategic planning, financial management, business operations, and leadership to support sustainable growth and measurable impact.

Benefits of Seed Lab

• The Seed Lab offers a comprehensive, tailored curriculum designed for Agri-SMEs, following the journey from designing the business model to scaling your business and raising external capital. The sessions focus on strengthening strategic foundations and translating business objectives into actionable go-to-market and growth strategies while building capacity in critical areas such as talent management, leadership skills, financial management, and investment readiness.

Check : Fully Funded Fellowships for International Students 2025-2026 – Apply Now!

Eligibility 

• Open to Agri-SMEs in the following countries: Burkina Faso, DRC, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Uganda, and Zambia.
• Agribusinesses operating in food system value chains, and supporting ecosystem players, e.g., agricultural producers, input & equipment providers, processors, marketplaces, Ag-tech businesses, etc.
• 2023 annual revenue should be between US $100,000-$500,000
• Have 5-50 full-time employees
• Capital raise target: US $50,000-$750,000
• Prioritization will be given to SMEs with integrated gender-inclusive and climate-resilient practices

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