Enabel has launched a final call for applications for its investment readiness and acceleration programme targeting Tanzania’s leading green and circular economy firms. With the deadline fast approaching on 15 November 2025, the programme, part of the EU-funded Green and Smart Cities initiative, will support ten anchor firms in Mwanza, Tanga and Pemba to strengthen their investment appeal, enhance SME linkages and expand their contribution to sustainable urban development.
Building Green and Circular Economies in Tanzania
The Green and Smart Cities Programme, managed by Enabel, focuses on promoting sustainable urban development. It works to improve green infrastructure, stimulate local economic growth through circular and digital skills, and enhance public services in key urban areas. The programme gives special attention to empowering youth and women by offering digital and financial literacy, supporting green entrepreneurship and expanding access to finance.
As part of this broader initiative, Enabel is launching an investment readiness and acceleration programme designed to support ten high-potential firms already leading change in Tanzania’s green and circular economy. These anchor firms will benefit from tailored venture support to unlock growth and attract investors who believe in sustainability and inclusive development.
To implement the programme effectively, Enabel has partnered with Ennovate Ventures, a leading innovation and venture support firm. Together, they will deliver a 12-month, investor-led acceleration journey focused on helping selected companies strengthen their business models, access finance and expand their market influence.
The partnership will also serve a wider purpose: linking established firms with smaller businesses, creating opportunities across value chains and supporting national efforts toward a greener, more inclusive economy.
A Tailored Programme for High-Potential Firms
The acceleration programme will offer a full range of services, from diagnostics to investor engagement. Selected firms will undergo a comprehensive investment-readiness assessment that evaluates their financials, governance, strategy, market positioning and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance.
They will then enter an 8-week tailored acceleration phase, featuring workshops on financial modeling, corporate governance, investor pitch preparation and SME integration. This stage is designed to give businesses the tools and knowledge they need to strengthen their operations and position themselves for long-term investment.
The programme also includes due diligence support, helping firms address compliance and documentation gaps through simulated investor reviews. This practical step ensures that companies are fully prepared when engaging with investors.
On the financing side, selected firms will participate in investor engagement activities, including monthly investor series, quarterly roadshows and curated matchmaking sessions. These events will connect firms with local and international investors who are focused on sustainable ventures.
In addition to direct investment support, firms will benefit from systemic linkages and advocacy. This means they will be connected to SMEs within their value chains, have opportunities to pilot green innovations and take part in discussions aimed at reducing policy and market barriers.
Who Can Apply
The programme targets growth-stage companies that are already operational in Tanzania and actively engaged in the green and circular economy. Eligible firms should have annual revenues between USD 150,000 and 2 million, employ at least 20 people and demonstrate potential for expansion and influence in their sector.
They should also show a strong commitment to ESG standards and inclusive growth, particularly in supporting gender equality, youth employment and climate-positive practices.
Preference will be given to companies working within key green value chains, including:
- Fish processing and trading
- Seaweed farming and processing
- Waste collection and management
- Soap and essential oils production
- Food processing and food systems
These sectors have been identified for their potential to create jobs, promote sustainable practices and contribute to a resilient local economy.
Transparent Selection Process
The application period runs from 5 October to 15 November 2025. Once applications are submitted, they will undergo a rigorous selection process that includes eligibility screening, interviews with a selection committee and validation visits to verify company operations. The final ten anchor firms will be announced before the end of November 2025.
The selection committee will include representatives from Enabel, Ennovate Ventures, investors and sector experts, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
A Step Toward a Greener, More Inclusive Tanzania
By helping established green firms strengthen their business capacity and connect with investors, the investment readiness and acceleration programme is not only supporting individual companies, it is building a foundation for broader economic transformation. The initiative’s focus on gender inclusion, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability aligns with Tanzania’s vision for a greener, more resilient economy.
With Enabel and Ennovate Ventures leading the way, the selected firms will be positioned to expand their impact, create more jobs and inspire new generations of entrepreneurs committed to sustainable growth.
