The latest develoPPP Ventures funding call is now open, offering early-growth startups in Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda a clear chance to scale their businesses with meaningful support. This initiative provides €100,000 in non-dilutive capital for companies that already have a proven business model and are ready to expand. The focus is simple but powerful: help young companies grow in a way that improves local development, supports communities and strengthens the region’s startup ecosystem.
This opportunity is especially important for startups that are creating solutions with real social, economic or environmental impact. It also comes at a time when access to early-growth funding remains one of the biggest challenges for young companies in East Africa. By offering capital that does not dilute ownership, plus technical support, the program gives founders the room to strengthen operations, improve products and expand their reach.
Women-led businesses and companies that promote gender equality are strongly encouraged to apply, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.
A Platform Designed to Help Startups Scale
develoPPP Ventures is built for early-growth startups that have already completed their initial formation phase. These companies must be earning revenue, have a defined business plan and show that their model can scale in a developing or emerging economy. The funding model is based on matching funds, which means the startup must secure additional investment equal to the €100,000 provided by the program. This approach ensures that companies have strong investor backing and that the funding is used to push the business toward long-term sustainability.
The goal is not to support ideas but to help companies that already have traction move to the next level. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) provides the funding and does so with a clear mission: back business models that can improve living conditions while generating profit. Startups must show that their work contributes to local economic, ecological or social progress. Whether it is through job creation, digital access, environmental solutions, agricultural innovation or community services, the impact must be clear and measurable.
Startups also receive technical support from local partners including DEG Impulse, VC4A, Ennovate Ventures, ViKtoria Ventures and Impact Hub Kigali. This support helps companies strengthen management systems, refine their growth strategy and prepare for future investment rounds.
To qualify, startups must be privately owned, profit-oriented and either registered in Kenya, Rwanda or Tanzania or be prepared to register there before the investment. They must be able to provide at least one annual financial statement, prove high growth potential and target break-even within three years. Companies that have already raised more than €2 million to date are not eligible, making this program ideal for young but fast-progressing businesses.
Clear Requirements With a Strong Development Purpose
Funding decisions are made through regular calls for applications and each investment must be used locally in the country where the startup is or will be registered. The investment proposal must clearly show how the funding will support sustainable growth. Companies must also show that they have secured matching funds or are in advanced discussions with investors to finalize these commitments within six months.
Matching funds are accepted even if they were received up to six months before applying, as long as the capital is still available. This ensures that the startup already has investor confidence, which adds momentum to the scaling process.
The program also emphasizes financial responsibility. The investment must have a defined purpose and companies must demonstrate that full commercial financing is not possible at this stage. This ensures that the funding goes to startups that genuinely need support to move past early growth barriers.
develoPPP itself is part of a long-standing effort by the BMZ to encourage responsible and sustainable private-sector investment in developing countries. The broader program supports companies that aim to invest in local operations while contributing to long-term development. For the startup, this creates a balanced approach where business growth and positive local impact move together.
The current call for applications is open until 31 December 2025, giving founders across Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda time to prepare strong submissions. With more than 100 companies already benefiting from the program, this new call represents another chance for ambitious founders to accelerate growth without giving up equity.
For many startups in East Africa, €100,000 in non-dilutive capital can change the entire direction of a business. It can help companies strengthen their teams, upgrade technology, expand to new markets or refine their product offerings. With added technical support and a requirement for matching funds, the initiative is designed to support serious founders who are ready to scale responsibly.
