The Catalyst Fund, managed by BFA Global, invests in African climate-tech startups at the pre-seed stage. They provide $200,000 in equity-free investment along with hands-on venture-building support, mentorship, and access to a global investor network. The fund focuses on solutions that help people and businesses adapt to climate change and build long-term resilience.
Application Deadline:
Rolling — applications are reviewed continuously.
Which Sectors are Eligible?
Catalyst Fund backs startups in climate adaptation and resilience across:
- Fintech for Climate Resilience — insurance, carbon finance, climate data
- Sustainable Livelihoods — agriculture, food systems, fisheries, land restoration
- Climate-smart Essential Services — water management, cold storage, clean energy, waste management, health
Type:
Pre-seed investment + venture-building support.
Who can apply?
- African startups at the pre-seed stage
- Teams with early users or pilot projects already running
- Founders building tech solutions for climate adaptation and resilience
How are applicants selected?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Selection is based on:
- Clear articulation of product, traction, and target market
- Alignment with climate adaptation and resilience thesis
- Demonstrated impact potential and scalability
- Founding team’s background and execution capacity
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Africa-focused startups, with emphasis on climate resilience solutions.
Where will the opportunity be taken?
Across Africa, with support delivered through Catalyst Fund’s venture-building model and investor network.
How Many Opportunities?
Multiple startups are selected annually. Catalyst Fund has already accelerated 61 companies, which went on to raise $800M+ in follow-on funding and serve over 14 million customers.
What is the benefit of the opportunity?
- $200,000 pre-seed investment
- 400+ hours of tailored venture-building support
- Mentorship from ex-founders and operators
- Access to a network of 250+ investors and ecosystem partners
- High survival and growth rates (86% of portfolio startups survive or get acquired)
How Long Will the Support Last?
Support is milestone-based, with intensive venture-building during the early growth phase and continued investor connections at Seed and Series A.
How to Apply:
- Prepare startup details (product, traction, target market, climate impact).
- Submit via the Pitch to Us form on the Catalyst Fund website.
- Applications are screened and reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Selected startups are invited for deeper discussions, pitch deck/demo reviews, and due diligence.