Services

Funding Opportunities:

Grants, Loans, and Investment Programs for Startups
The Africa Ascent Foundation is committed to helping startups access the capital they need for success. We offer a variety of financing options, ranging from grants to investment opportunities, designed to support startups at various stages of their journey. Here’s an overview of the funding programs we offer or facilitate:

Subventions

We offer non-dilutive funding opportunities to help startups launch without giving up equity in their business. Our grant programs support early-stage companies focused on innovation and positive social or environmental impacts.

Key Grant Programs:

Innovation Grant:
Provides up to $20,000 to early-stage startups developing groundbreaking technologies or business models.

Social Impact Grant:
Offers up to $40,000 to startups addressing critical social, environmental, or community challenges in sectors such as sustainability, education, or healthcare.

Eligibility Criteria:
Startups must demonstrate a unique value proposition, proof of concept, and alignment with the foundation’s mission to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.

Our Investment Opportunities

We connect startups with angel investors, venture capitalists (VCs), and impact investors who are looking for high-growth opportunities. Our foundation plays a critical role in introducing founders to investors who align with their business goals.

oAngel Investment Network: A platform that connects startups with angel investors interested in seed or pre-seed funding. Typical investments range from $25,000 to $150,000.

o Venture Capital Partnerships: We work with top-tier VC firms to provide startups with Series A or Series B funding. These investments are generally targeted at high-growth companies with proven traction and market demand, with funding amounts typically ranging from $500,000 to several million.

o Impact Investing Fund: For startups focused on social, environmental, or community-driven change, we facilitate connections with impact investors who prioritize mission-aligned ventures. These investors look for both financial returns and measurable positive impact.

o Investor Matching Program: Startups that demonstrate strong growth potential, innovation, and a solid business model can participate in our Investor Matching Program, where we introduce them to investors based on their sector, funding stage, and goals.

Crowdfunding Support

For startups looking to raise funds through crowdfunding, we provide advice and resources to maximize their success on crowdfunding platforms or equity crowdfunding sites.

Pitch Competitions and Accelerators

Startups can participate in our annual pitch competitions, where winners receive grants, mentorship, and investment opportunities.

Prizes:

Cash prizes ranging from 10,000 to 70,000 USD.
Access to a network of investors.
An acceleration program with initial funding of up to 50,000 USD.