The Scaling digital Agriculture Innovations through Start-ups (SAIS) programme is inviting African startups to apply for its 2027 Livestock Investment Readiness Programme.
Implemented by GIZ, the initiative supports technology-driven businesses improving livestock and aquaculture value chains, helping them strengthen operations, attract investment and scale their solutions.
What Selected Startups Receive
- Up to €15,000 in technical assistance for business development, product improvement, marketing, legal services, certification and other growth needs.
- Business coaching through a dedicated SAIS adviser.
- Investment-readiness support covering fundraising, financial planning and investor preparation.
- Investor and partnership connections through pitch sessions and curated introductions.
- Networking opportunities and access to the SAIS community of over 100 startups.
The €15,000 support is provided in kind for approved services, not as unrestricted cash. The programme does not take equity.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants must:
- Be a legally registered, for-profit startup in an African country.
- Have at least two members on their management team.
- Be at pre-seed, seed or Series A stage.
- Have a functioning minimum viable product (MVP).
- Use technology to address challenges in livestock, dairy or aquaculture value chains.
- Demonstrate potential for growth and investment.
Startups with paying customers, recurring revenue or established partnerships are particularly encouraged.
Areas of Focus
The programme prioritises innovations in:
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- Animal health and disease management.
- Animal feed and nutrition.
- Livestock genetics and breeding.
- Dairy production and productivity.
- Aquaculture technologies, including fish feed and genetics.
While dairy innovations are particularly relevant to East Africa, aquaculture solutions from West Africa, including Nigeria, are specifically encouraged. Startups from other regions can also apply if their solutions support the programme's priority value chains.
Programme Commitment
Selected startups should appoint a management team member as their main contact and commit approximately two hours per week to programme activities. They must also participate in designated networking events and provide business progress updates.
How to Apply
- Visit the official SAIS Livestock Programme application page.
- Review the eligibility criteria and programme requirements.
- Prepare information about your business, product, team and growth plans.
- Complete and submit the online application.
Application Deadline
November 15, 2026.
The programme runs from March 2027 to February 2028.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Applicants should confirm eligibility requirements and programme details through the official website before applying. Edfrica is not affiliated with the organisers and does not guarantee selection or funding.
