Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit continues to rise, and now there’s a new $4 million fund designed to support that momentum — especially for startups focused on solving climate and economic issues in Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania.
The Africa Ecosystem Catalysts Facility (AECF) is stepping in with funding and strategic support for those building solutions that truly fit the local context.
Backed by Global and Local Experts
The AECF is being led by Village Capital, with key backing from FMO (the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank) and RVO (Netherlands Enterprise Agency).
To ensure that local realities are at the heart of the investment process, the initiative is working closely with FATE Foundation as a Venture Partner in Nigeria.
Their role? To help spot high-potential startups that can create real, long-term impact.
Who Can Apply?
If you’re running a startup and wondering whether you qualify, here’s a quick breakdown of the criteria:
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Your business must be locally led and have raised less than $2 million so far.
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You’ve already launched your Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and are starting to see early revenue.
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Your startup is financially healthy or on a clear path to sustainability.
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You’re currently raising between $75,000 and $500,000.
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Most importantly, your product or service tackles economic mobility or helps communities adapt to climate change.
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Whether through process improvements, disruptive products, or fresh business models, your innovation should offer a better way forward.
Tailored Funding That Fits Your Growth
One of the biggest perks of the AECF is its flexibility.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all funding approach, the facility will use innovative finance tools, including debt-like instruments, to tailor support based on each startup’s growth goals and capital requirements.
A Four-Step Investment Process
The selection process will unfold over several months, finishing up in November 2025.
Here’s how it will work:
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Shortlisting of qualified startups
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Evaluation of business potential and impact
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Due Diligence for deeper financial and operational checks
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Final Investment Committee decision
Application Deadlines and Where to Apply
Interested startups can apply through the partner platforms listed below:
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Reach for Change (Ghana) – Deadline: July 21, 2025
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FATE Foundation (Nigeria) – Deadline: August 4, 2025
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Ennovate Ventures (Tanzania)
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Africa Fintech Foundry
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Anza Entrepreneurs
All applications close by August 4, 2025, so don’t wait too long.
Want to Know More?
For all the details and application links, be sure to visit the official Africa Ecosystem Catalysts Facility website.