Early-stage Ghanaian startups with a focus on sustainable development and innovation are urged to finalise their applications for the prestigious develoPPP Ventures programme, with just 15 days remaining until the June 30, 2025, deadline.

This unique initiative offers €100,000 in non-dilutive funding, meaning founders retain full equity, alongside crucial strategic support designed to scale impact-driven business models.

The funding opportunity is a key component of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)'s commitment to fostering sustainable growth in developing economies.

It is expertly implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, DEG Impulse gGmbH, and GreenTec Capital GmbH, with TKC Africa serving as the dedicated implementation partner for Ghana, providing invaluable local expertise and support.

Driving Sustainable Development Through Innovation

The develoPPP Ventures programme specifically targets innovative, privately owned companies whose scalable business models contribute directly to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The programme seeks enterprises that are actively working to improve local living conditions, create positive developmental impact, increase local income, save natural resources, enhance access to essential services, and generate decent employment opportunities.

What Successful Applicants Stand to Gain

Beyond the initial €100,000 in non-dilutive capital, successful applicants gain access to a comprehensive support package, including:

• Potential top-up funding in a second phase, offering continued growth capital.
• Strategic business advisory and mentorship from seasoned experts.
• Invaluable access to extensive investor networks and potential partnerships.
• Tailored support for scaling operations and expanding into new markets.

Key Eligibility and Assessment Criteria

To qualify for this competitive program, Ghanaian companies must meet several stringent eligibility requirements:

• Must be registered in Ghana or commit to registration prior to funding disbursement.
• Must be privately owned and profit-oriented, with at least one annual financial statement demonstrating operational activity.
• Crucially, applicants must have achieved proof of concept with initial revenues generated from their operating activities, indicating market validation.
• A viable business plan with robust 3-year financial projections is required.
• Companies must have raised less than €2 million in total funding to date.
• Applicants must secure matching funds of €100,000 from other investors, which can have been received up to six months prior to the application.
• Finally, startups must demonstrate a clear potential to reach break-even within three years.

Applications will be rigorously evaluated based on several key areas, including their innovation relative to the Ghanaian market, scalability and growth potential, financial sustainability, the expertise of their management team, and their direct contribution to the UN SDGs.

Special Focus on Women-Led Enterprises

In line with global efforts to promote gender equality in entrepreneurship, the develoPPP Ventures program places a special emphasis on encouraging applications from women-led enterprises. Startups that actively promote gender equality and align with the 2X Challenge criteria for gender-lens investing are particularly encouraged to apply.

The selection process involves an initial application review, followed by pitch presentations to the joint TKC Africa/DEG Impulse/GIZ selection committee. Successful candidates will then undergo a thorough due diligence process before final selection and contract negotiation.

How to Apply: Interested Ghanaian startups should submit their applications through the official portal: https://www.developpp.de/en/application/ventures

For assistance, inquiries, or to request an info session, applicants can email info@tkcafrica.com or applications@greentec-capital.com.

About the Implementation Partners: TKC Africa provides crucial local expertise and support throughout the application and selection process in Ghana, leveraging its specialization in business and investment consulting across Africa.

DEG Impulse gGmbH and GIZ GmbH are esteemed German development finance institutions renowned for their extensive experience in supporting emerging market enterprises through patient capital and technical assistance.