Written by Applications are now open for Halcyon’s Africa Innovation in Agriculture and Food Security Program 2027, supporting early-stage, impact-driven ventures across Sub-Saharan Africa that are using market-based solutions to strengthen agriculture and food systems.
The programme is looking for founders developing solutions that improve the livelihoods and resilience of smallholder farmers, strengthen food security and help communities respond to climate-related challenges.
Who Can Apply?
Location
- Must be based in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Venture Stage
- Have a working Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with realistic potential to scale.
- Be at the paid-pilot or post-revenue stage.
- Demonstrate early commercial traction through paid pilots, revenue, customer contracts or similar evidence of market demand.
- Show early evidence of impact on smallholder farmers, low-income or vulnerable communities, or food systems.
- Be working full-time on the venture.
Founder Requirements
- Applicant must be the CEO or have primary decision-making authority.
- May apply with up to one co-founder.
- Must be at least 21 years old by the start of the programme.
- Must be fluent in English.
- Must commit to all programme activities, residencies, events and virtual sessions.
Impact Requirements
Applicants must:
- Develop a product and venture contributing to one or more of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Use a market-based approach to strengthen agriculture and food systems.
- Prioritise improving the livelihoods and resilience of smallholder farmers and low-income or vulnerable communities.
Programme Benefits
Selected entrepreneurs will receive:
- $10,000 equity-free stipend per venture
- $10,000 in AWS credits
- Access to Halcyon’s global community of 650+ founders
- Professional advisors
- Workshops covering leadership development, capital strategy and product-market fit
- Networking opportunities with investors and other stakeholders
- Continued benefits after completing the programme
Programme Structure
The programme will combine virtual programming with two in-person residencies:
Residency 1: Accra, Ghana
11–19 March 2027
Residency 2: Nairobi, Kenya
28 May–4 June 2027
Application Timeline
- Initial Deadline for Consideration: 23 October 2026
- Invitational Deadline: 30 October 2026
- Pitch Days: 7–8 December 2026
- Selected Applicants Notified: 18 December 2026
- Virtual Kickoff: 9 February 2027
- Residency 1: 11–19 March 2027
- Virtual Meetings: 9 April, 23 April and 7 May 2027
- Residency 2: 28 May–4 June 2027
How to Apply
Visit the Official Halcyon Africa Innovation in Agriculture and Food Security Program webpage