Request for Applications: USADF Grant Program (Zambia)

The aim is to help them improve their internal processes and capabilities so that they can fully meet the investment requirements of commercial investors.

Funding Information

• Award: Up to US $25,000 to each of the selected winners.

Eligibility Criteria

• Only privately-owned businesses that are registered and operating in Zambia can apply.
• Priority shall be given to women and youth owned MSMEs.
• To be considered for grant funding, the Applicant must demonstrate that:
  • They have had basic functional management and financial controls for a minimum of 2 years.
  • They have been using financial institutions for all their business transactions for the last 12 months. Mobile money transfer statements can be used to back up the bank statements.
  • They have in the past applied for commercial investment and met some (if not most) of the financing requirements, but the application was denied due to weak internal systems/ processes, capability gaps, failure to present a compelling investment request, or related reasons.
  • They have paid all taxes to the relevant authorities in a timely manner.
  • They are legally registered and have fixed premises for the business operations.
  • They have invested as much as US $10,000 in their business.
  • For group-owned enterprises/cooperatives, the applicant must demonstrate that they have successfully worked together for a minimum of two years, have the capability to effectively use grants funds, and the membership is in agreement on the challenges to be addressed with the grant funding, and have a commitment to benefit their community.
  • The enterprise is Africa-owned and managed.
  • Applicant must not be an employee of government, or employee of an entity majority owned by government.
• Successful applicants must:
  • Complete the standard USADF/Stanbic application form.
  • Have a clearly identified and well-defined problem that can be addressed with the grant funding to make the enterprise investment ready.
  • Be able to identify a path for growth after the USADF/Stanbic grant ends with a clear investment plan.
  • Be able to provide proof that they have invested as much as US$10,000 in their business.
  • Have a clearly defined market opportunity to grow revenues that can increase incomes.
  • If selected, be willing to comply with minimum funds usage reporting requirements applicable to the grant.
  • If selected, be willing to share details and evidence of why their past application for commercial investment was declined.
  • Must not be an employee of government or employee of an entity majority owned by the Government.

For more information, visit United States African Development Foundation.