Deadline: July 19, 2026
The program focuses on reducing regulatory and administrative constraints and enhancing market entry and expansion, with objectives to reduce systemic regulatory barriers to private sector development and enhance market integration, competitiveness, and growth potential, especially for SMEs.
Under the 2026–2029 Multi-Annual Country Strategy for Kenya, the Netherlands has identified bilateral trade and economy as a key area of engagement, aiming to strengthen economic opportunities while supporting inclusive growth in Kenya. The call seeks practical solutions that improve the business and investment environment by addressing structural challenges affecting private sector growth.
Kenya and the Netherlands maintain strong economic relations, with significant trade, investment, and business cooperation across sectors. Dutch companies operating in Kenya contribute to economic growth, job creation, technology transfer, and knowledge exchange.
Despite progress in improving the business environment, challenges remain, including regulatory barriers, administrative costs, market access limitations, and constraints affecting private sector competitiveness. This call encourages organizations to develop initiatives that provide practical and innovative approaches to overcome these barriers.
For the first focus area, initiatives should address regulatory and administrative challenges through solutions such as digitalizing business registration, licensing, and compliance processes, improving government procedures, simplifying regulatory requirements, strengthening procurement frameworks, and supporting reforms that enhance transparency and efficiency. Applications under this area should be implemented in collaboration with a government entity.
The second focus area aims to improve market integration and expansion by supporting SMEs and private sector actors through stronger market linkages, improved access to buyers and procurement opportunities, intermediation models, transaction systems, and platforms that reduce barriers to market participation.
Eligible applicants include civil society organizations, private sector organizations, international organizations, and knowledge institutes. Organizations may apply individually or as part of a consortium, with the lead applicant required to demonstrate experience in implementing comparable programs.
Each proposal can request up to KES 150,000,000 (approximately EUR 1 million) with a maximum implementation period of three years. Indirect costs, including overheads, must remain below 15% of the total budget, and for-profit organizations must apply using non-commercial rates.
For more information, visit Embassy of the Netherlands in Kenya.
