The Seed Lab is a key initiative to support agri-SMEs under the African Development Bank’s Agri-Food SME Catalytic Financing Mechanism’s (ACFM) Technical Assistance Window, delivered through Open Capital’s Agri-SME Support Program. ACFM was officially launched on June 20th 2024. The Seed Lab offers a comprehensive, tailored curriculum designed for Agri-SMEs, following the journey from designing the business model to scaling your business and raising external capital.

Unlock your Agri-SME's potential with the Seed Lab, a comprehensive, cohort-based capacity building initiative crafted by the African Development Bank and Open Capital. Leveraging decades of experience supporting Agri-SMEs across Sub-Saharan Africa, this exclusive ~3-month program is designed to propel your business forward. Join over 140 agri-SMEs from 20+ countries as the program dives deep into refining your business model, refining growth strategies, and preparing you to access finance and have deeper impact in your markets.

Led by industry leaders, the Seed Lab will equip you with essential skills in strategic planning, financial management, business operations, and leadership, to support sustainable growth and measurable impact.

To be eligible for the Seed Lab, your business must meet the following criteria:

1. Geographic location: Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, or Nigeria

2. Agribusinesses operating in food system value chains, and supporting ecosystem players, e.g., agricultural producers, input & equipment providers, processors, marketplaces, Ag-tech businesses, etc...

3.2023 annual revenues: US $100,000-$500,000

4. Number of full-time employees: 5-50

5.Capital raise target: US $50,000-$750,000

6.Gender and climate integration: Prioritization will be given to SMEs with integrated gender-inclusive and climate-resilient practices

Application deadline: 5/08/2024

Application Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSekPUG4J5Ro5AuCiwET3vqCBmTT2uCTOjkdVFXKFz1UNd77Zw/viewform?pli=1

Apply Here