The develoPPP Ventures programme has officially opened applications for its latest cohort, offering African startups the opportunity to access €100,000 in non-dilutive funding aimed at scaling high-impact, innovation-driven businesses across emerging markets. The initiative is backed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented through DEG Impulse and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), to support startups that are creating scalable solutions with strong social, environmental, or economic impact. The programme targets early-stage and growth-stage startups that have already moved beyond the idea phase and can demonstrate proof of concept or early revenue generation. Selected companies must show strong potential for scale, a clear business model, and the ability to attract additional investment, as the funding model requires applicants to secure matching capital to unlock the grant.
Startups across key African markets—including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Côte d’Ivoire—are eligible to apply. The initiative is designed to strengthen local innovation ecosystems by supporting businesses that address critical development challenges such as financial inclusion, climate change, agriculture, healthcare, education, and digital transformation.
Beyond the €100,000 grant, develoPPP Ventures also offers technical assistance, mentorship, and access to international networks that can help startups refine their operations and scale more efficiently. High-performing companies may also qualify for additional top-up funding in subsequent phases, potentially increasing total support to €200,000 or more, depending on performance.
The programme’s non-dilutive structure is particularly attractive to founders seeking growth capital without giving up equity. However, the matching-funds requirement ensures that participating startups already have investor interest or traction, reinforcing the programme’s focus on commercially viable and scalable ventures rather than purely early-stage ideas.
As applications open, develoPPP Ventures continues to position itself as a catalytic funding platform bridging the gap between development finance and private investment. By combining grant capital with investor co-funding, the initiative aims to unlock sustainable growth for African startups while accelerating their contribution to long-term economic development across the continent.
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