Written by Applications are now open for the HealthyDiets4Africa Agribusiness Accelerator Program Cohort III, designed to support agribusiness innovators working on transforming Africa’s food systems.
The program is implemented by Food Security for Peace and Nutrition Africa under the HealthyDiets4Africa initiative.
About the Program
The HealthyDiets4Africa Agribusiness Accelerator Program is an innovation-driven initiative aimed at empowering youth and women-led agribusinesses to scale solutions that improve nutrition and food systems across Africa.
The program focuses on building investor-ready agribusinesses by providing structured training, mentorship, and access to ecosystem support.
Participants receive both virtual and in-person training, alongside exposure to partners and stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
Program Focus Areas
Eligible innovations should address key food system challenges such as:
- Sustainable crop production
- Urban and peri-urban agriculture
- Food processing, value addition, and fortification
- Post-harvest storage and loss reduction
- Distribution and aggregation systems
These solutions are expected to contribute to healthier diets and sustainable food systems.
Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Business development training and mentorship
- Opportunity to access grant funding (top innovations rewarded)
- Linkages to investors and funding opportunities
- Exposure through trade fairs, exhibitions, and ecosystem events
- Access to partners and collaboration opportunities within the program
Top-performing startups may receive cash awards and scaling support.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should:
- Be youth (18–35 years) or women entrepreneurs
- Have an agribusiness idea, innovation, or early-stage enterprise
- Be working on solutions within the food and agriculture value chain
- Demonstrate innovation, feasibility, and scalability
- Apply individually or as a team (up to 10 members)
Most cohorts prioritize early-stage startups (0–2 years) with strong potential for growth.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Africa’s food systems face major challenges around nutrition, sustainability, and post-harvest losses. Programs like HealthyDiets4Africa help entrepreneurs build solutions that:
- Improve food security and nutrition
- Reduce waste and inefficiencies
- Strengthen local agricultural value chains
It’s particularly valuable for founders looking to become investment-ready and scale impact-driven agribusinesses.
How to Apply
To apply:
- Complete the online application form
- Submit details of your agribusiness idea or startup
- Upload a short pitch (video or audio) describing your solution