Call for Applications: FAO Matching Grants Scheme for Agribusinesses in Afghanistan

This programme focuses on supporting women-led start-ups, small producer groups, small agri-SMEs, established producer groups, medium to large local market SMEs, processors, aggregators, and export-oriented enterprises. The objectives are to help early-stage and women-led enterprises, strengthen small agri-SMEs and established producer groups, support SMEs serving domestic markets, and enhance the competitiveness of export-oriented agribusinesses.

Window 1A provides entry-level support for women-led micro-enterprises, start-ups, small producer groups, and youth-led agribusinesses operating for less than three years, requiring minimal staff and turnover, and demonstrating linkages with at least five farming households. Window 1B targets small agri-SMEs and established producer groups with three or more years of operation, stronger governance, and market linkages, offering grants between USD 15,001 and 30,000 with co-contribution requirements. Window 2 supports SMEs operating at provincial and national levels serving domestic markets, including processors, aggregators, packhouses, and cold storage operators, with grants ranging from USD 30,000 to 60,000 and linkages to at least 50 farming households. Window 3 focuses on export-oriented enterprises with demonstrated export experience or verified contracts, aiming to improve competitiveness in international markets for high-value Afghan commodities, offering grants between USD 60,000 and 100,000.

Applicants must provide business profiles or plans according to the window, demonstrate eligibility criteria including operational history, turnover, staff, registration, financial records, and market or export linkages, and comply with co-contribution requirements. Each window is designed to provide targeted financial support to strengthen agricultural value chains and contribute to enhanced food security in Afghanistan.

For more information, visit ACBAR.