Kigali, Rwanda, 16th May, 2024. DEG Impulse GmbH, is pleased to open the call for applications to the develoPPP Ventures programme in Rwanda. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the programme is launching for the first time in Rwanda, with implementation support by VC4A and Impact Hub Kigali.
The develoPPP Ventures funding scheme supports startups that feature innovative business models that substantially enhance living standards in emerging markets. It offers EUR 100,000 in grant co-financing to assist in the scaling of operations, with the opportunity for additional funding in subsequent phases. In the initial target countries of Kenya and Tanzania, DEG Impulse has financed 55 high-growth start-ups since the programme was launched.
To be eligible, startups must:
- Be privately owned and profit-oriented.
- Have a viable business and financial plan.
- Be able to provide at least one annual financial statement.
- Raise match funding from other investors in the form of cash injections.
- Not have acquired more than a maximum of EUR 2 million in funding to date.
- Exhibit high growth potential and be capable of reaching break-even within a maximum of three years
The program specifically encourages applications from women-led startups and those committed to advancing gender equality, emphasizing its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Eligible startups must be registered in Rwanda or intend to register before the commencement of funding.
With the launch of develoPPP Ventures in Rwanda, we look forward to providing significant funding opportunities for startups with impactful business models,” stated Julia Stausberg-Umuerri, Senior Manager develoPPP Ventures at DEG Impulse gGmbH. ” Our goal is to unlock private capital and encourage more investors to support early-stage Rwandan companies to scale their innovative solutions.
For detailed information on participation requirements, and assessment criteria, please visit our website at http://www.develoPPP.de/en/ventures.
Applications for the develoPPP Ventures programme in Rwanda are now open and can be submitted through the VC4A application platform, with Impact Hub Kigali and VC4A providing support throughout the process. The call for applications is also open for 4 other countries: Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania. The deadline for the application is June 30th, 2024.
For further information and inquiries, please contact:
- Impact Hub Kigali: programs.kigali@impacthub.net
DEG Impulse is a 100 % non-profit subsidiary of DEG – Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH. DEG Impulse promotes the social and ecological transition of the private sector in emerging-market countries and supports development policy goals as defined by the Sustainable Development Goals.