develoPPP Ventures 2026: Catalytic Funding for Innovative Startups Expanding Across Africa
develoPPP Ventures is now accepting applications for its 2026 funding round supporting innovative startups with scalable and development-oriented business models across selected African markets.
The initiative is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented through:
- DEG Impulse gGmbH
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH
develoPPP Ventures provides catalytic co-financing to startups that are generating measurable social, environmental, and economic impact while contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The programme specifically supports startups that already have proof of concept, initial revenues, and strong growth potential within emerging markets.
Current Application Window
- Applications open: 15 May 2026
- Applications close: 30 June 2026
Eligible Countries
The current 2026 funding call is open to startups operating in:
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- South Africa
- Tanzania
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Innovative startups
- Early-stage companies
- Growth-stage ventures
- Impact-driven businesses
- Technology-enabled startups
- Social enterprises
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be privately owned and profit-oriented
- Be registered in the target country, or commit to local registration before funding is finalised
- Have an innovative business model
- Demonstrate proof of concept
- Already be generating initial revenues
- Show strong scalability potential
- Contribute to one or more Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Demonstrate development impact within the local market
What Types of Businesses Are Supported?
The programme supports startups with:
- Innovative and scalable business models
- Strong market potential
- Sustainable impact
- Potential for long-term economic, social, or environmental benefits
Examples may include:
- Climate technology startups
- Agritech ventures
- Health innovation companies
- FinTech startups
- Circular economy businesses
- Digital inclusion platforms
- Renewable energy ventures
- Mobility and logistics innovators
Funding Structure
develoPPP Ventures operates as a:
- Matching-funds financing model
This means:
- Startups must secure external investment capital matching the requested funding amount
- Matching capital may come from:
- Angel investors
- Venture capital funds
- Impact investors
- Family offices
- Friends and family funding
- Existing shareholders
- Certain grants (partially considered)
Important Investment Conditions
Applicants should:
- Be in advanced discussions with investors
- Demonstrate realistic fundraising potential within the next six months
- Have sufficient operational readiness for scaling activities
What Makes a Business Model Eligible?
Development Relevance
The business should contribute meaningfully to:
- Economic development
- Social inclusion
- Environmental sustainability
- SDG achievement
Innovation
The programme prioritises:
- New business ideas
- Innovative products or services
- Market gaps not yet sufficiently addressed locally
Scalability
Businesses should demonstrate:
- Large market potential
- Sustainable growth capacity
- Ability to achieve economies of scale
- Long-term expansion potential
Selection Process
Applications undergo a multi-stage review process including:
- Initial application review
- Pitch evaluation
- Due diligence process
- Financial and operational assessment
Shortlisted startups may be asked to provide:
- Detailed business plans
- Financial projections (minimum 5 years)
- Financial statements
- Investor information
- Growth strategy documentation
Why This Opportunity Matters
Access to catalytic early-stage capital remains one of the biggest barriers facing startups across Africa.
develoPPP Ventures helps startups:
- Scale operations sustainably
- Expand into high-growth African markets
- Unlock private investment
- Strengthen development impact
- Improve investment readiness
- Accelerate SDG-focused innovation
The programme is particularly valuable for startups combining commercial sustainability with measurable social or environmental outcomes.
Important Notes
- Funding calls take place twice annually
- Applications are country-specific
- Funding agreements are signed with local legal entities
- Startups not yet registered locally may still apply if registration is completed before contracting
- Matching investment is mandatory
Contact Information
Ghana & South Africa
Kenya, Rwanda & Tanzania