Applications Open: Africa Funding Readiness Fellowship 2025

Africa Funding Readiness Fellowship 2025

Are you a passionate entrepreneur looking to scale your business and secure funding? The Africa Funding Readiness Fellowship (AFRF) 2025 is here to empower nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs) with the tools and knowledge needed to achieve financial readiness and attract investors.

This immersive 6-month program combines expert-led workshops, mentorship, and direct access to over 50 investors, giving you the confidence and capability to take your business to the next level.

About the Fellowship

The Africa Funding Readiness Fellowship builds on the success of the 2022 “Countdown to Capital” program, expanding its scope to provide more comprehensive training for 100 exceptional African entrepreneurs.

The fellowship focuses on three core themes:

1. Fundable Business Structures:
   • Learn how to design business structures that appeal to funders, covering financial management, risk assessment, and legal frameworks.
2. Business Leadership:
   • Master the art of guiding your business with vision and strategy.
   • Foster innovation, adaptability, and collaboration to drive sustainable growth and inspire teams.
3. Business Strategy, Operations, and Technology Adoption:
   • Align strategy with efficient operations and leverage emerging technologies to stay competitive in today’s dynamic market.

Also Apply: Apply Now: Leading African Women in Food Fellowship (LAWFF) Program 2025

Benefits of Joining AFRF 2025

1. Funding Readiness Training
   • An intensive 6-month program covering essential entrepreneurship skills like business leadership, strategy development, and operational planning.
   • Learn how to create funding plans and apply proven growth strategies to scale your business.
2. One-on-One Mentorship
   • Fellows will receive personalized guidance from experienced mentors to navigate challenges and build successful enterprises.
3. Access to Funding Opportunities
   • Participate in a demo day to pitch your business to potential investors.
   • Selected fellows will also have access to low-interest loans through partnerships with local lending institutions.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be 18 years or older as of January 2025.
• Own or aspire to start a business based in Africa.
• Demonstrate commitment to the program, including reliable internet access and English proficiency.
• Showcase innovative and impactful business ideas with strong market potential.

Selection is based on merit, showcasing your purposefulness, and the potential for positive impact through your venture.

Also Apply: Apply Now: Leading African Women in Food Fellowship (LAWFF) Program 2025

How to Apply

The application process is divided into two stages:

Stage 1 (October 21 – December 16, 2024)

• Submit a 120-second video pitch showcasing your business or idea.

Stage 2 (January 2025)

• Semifinalists will be asked to complete a written application answering specific questions aligned with the Fellowship goals.

Application Deadline: December 16, 2024

Program Capacity: Only 100 entrepreneurs will be selected to participate.

Apply here