Africa Agri-Food Development Programme: Grants up to €250,000 for African Agri-Food Businesses

Applications are currently open for the Africa Agri-Food Development Programme (AADP) 2025. This initiative offers matched grant funding of up to €250,000 for agri-food businesses in Africa, supporting sustainable development and trade partnerships. 

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be agri-food businesses registered in Ireland or one of 19 eligible African countries for at least 24 months prior to application. Eligible African countries include Botswana, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Namibia, Nigeria, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

For Full Commercial Projects, a joint partnership between an Irish and an African private sector organization is required. All projects must be commercial in nature, demonstrate sound financial management, and contribute to sustainable development outcomes. Applicants will need to obtain an Irish Tax Clearance Certificate.

Benefits

• Grant Funding: Matched grants up to €250,000 for projects.
• Strategic Partnerships: Facilitation of collaborations between Irish and African agri-food businesses. 
• Expertise Exchange: Access to and sharing of agri-food knowledge and experience.
• Market Growth: Support for new market access and enhanced trade between Ireland and Africa.
• Sustainable Impact: Contribution to local community benefits and UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• Financial Risk Mitigation: Assistance in managing project financial risks.

The Africa Agri-Food Development Programme is Ireland's flagship initiative designed to support private sector engagement in transforming African food systems. It provides financial assistance for two types of projects: Feasibility Studies (up to €100,000) and Full Commercial Projects (up to €250,000). The program facilitates partnerships between Irish and African agri-food businesses, aiming to foster mutual trade, knowledge exchange, and sustainable economic development. Projects must contribute to the sustainable development of the food system and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.