AgDevCo Ventures is looking to invest between US$1 million and US$3 million in high-potential early-stage agribusinesses in East Africa. This investment vehicle offers patient capital and business support to assist agricultural SMEs in sustainable scaling. AgDevCo recently announced a US$49 million first close for the Ventures vehicle.
Application Deadline:
No fixed deadline — applications are evaluated on merit.
Tell Me About the Opportunity:
The AgDevCo Ventures Investment Programme provides US$1 million–US$3 million in medium‑term risk capital to early‑stage agribusinesses in East Africa. The investment vehicle offers mezzanine loans with up to 8‑year tenors, low interest rates, extended grace periods, and support for smallholder farmer programmes, gender initiatives, and climate resilience. AgDevCo works closely with investees, providing hands‑on operational, strategic, and agronomic support.
Which Sectors are Eligible?
AgDevCo invests across the agricultural value chain, including:
- Primary production (arable farming, horticulture, aquaculture, oilseeds, poultry, livestock)
- Agricultural processing
- Agricultural inputs
- AgTech
- Agricultural logistics
- Food & beverage/FMCG
Type:
Investment programme — mezzanine loans + technical assistance.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Have at least 3 years of operating history.
- Hold up to US$5 million in gross assets.
- Generate up to US$7.5 million in annual revenue.
- Already be revenue‑generating (positive EBITDA not required).
- Demonstrate a high‑impact, scalable business model.
- Have a capable and committed management team.
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Business impact potential and scalability.
- Development outcomes for employees, smallholder farmers, entrepreneurs, or customers.
- Gender impact (2X Challenge criteria) and Black African representation.
- ESG compliance and responsible business practices.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
AgDevCo Ventures currently invests in:
- 🇪🇹 Ethiopia
- 🇰🇪 Kenya
- 🇷🇼 Rwanda
- 🇹🇿 Tanzania
- 🇺🇬 Uganda
(Note: Nigerian businesses are not eligible under the current geographic focus.)
Where will the Opportunity be Taken?
East Africa — across agribusinesses operating in the five eligible countries.
How Many Opportunities?
Multiple investments — AgDevCo announced a US$49 million first close for the Ventures vehicle in August 2026.
What is the Benefit of the Opportunity?
- US$1M–US$3M investment capital.
- Mezzanine loans with up to 8‑year terms.
- Low interest rates with equity kicker linked to performance.
- Extended grace periods to ease cash flow.
- No dilution of voting rights.
- Collateral remains available for additional borrowing.
- Matching grant funding for technical assistance, smallholder programmes, gender and climate initiatives.
- Operational, strategic, and agronomic support from AgDevCo specialists.
How Long Will the Support Last?
Up to 8 years, depending on loan tenor and investment terms.
How to Apply:
- Ensure your business meets the investment criteria.
- Contact AgDevCo Ventures directly at investment@agdevco.com to discuss opportunities.
- Prepare for investment due diligence and ESG compliance requirements.