Agroecology Venture Accelerator

Key Dates and Information

Application Opens
  1st July, 2024
Application Deadline
  21st July, 2024
Shortlisting Notice
  TBA
1st Pitch
  TBA
Bootcamp
  TBA
Finalists Announced
  TBA
Challenge Finals
  TBA
ABOUT THE AGROECOLOGY VENTURE ACCELERATOR PROGRAMME

In complement to The Schmidt Family Foundation's work to supporting civil society's promotion of sustainable, rights-based food systems and food economies, the Agroecology Venture Accelerator aims to support the growing field of entrepreneurship around agroecology in Ghana through the provision of technical assistance and funding in the form of grants and loans to strengthen their operations and increase their social, environmental, or economic impact (communities or small farmers they're working with). For some, success will entail enabling them to be able to take on returnable capital.

What this programme offers

Check these categories to see where you best fit

Business Development Support

The program is committed to offering comprehensive business development support to farmers who qualify based on set eligibility criteria. This support will include tailored training, mentorship, and access to essential resources, all designed to equip farmers with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage and grow their operations. Qualified farmers will gain insights into effective business strategies, financial planning, and market access, helping them to increase productivity, tap into new and diverse markets, and build sustainable, resilient businesses. By providing this support, the program aims to foster an environment where farmers can thrive and contribute more significantly to the agricultural economy

Tailored Technical Assistance

The program will offer tailored technical assistance to farmers who meet the eligibility requirements, providing them with hands-on support and expertise specific to their unique operational needs. This assistance includes personalized guidance on best practices in areas such as crop management, livestock care, sustainable farming techniques, and modern agricultural technologies. By focusing on the distinct challenges and opportunities faced by each farm, the program aims to help farmers enhance productivity, improve resource efficiency, and address any technical barriers to growth. With this customized support, qualified farmers will be better positioned to increase their yields, boost profitability, and build resilient farming practices that contribute positively to their communities and the wider agricultural sector

Financial Support

The program will provide financial support to eligible farmers, helping them to overcome capital constraints and invest in their operations. This support may include grants, low-interest loans, or subsidies specifically designed to address the financial needs of farmers at various stages of growth. Qualified farmers will have access to funding to acquire essential equipment, purchase high-quality seeds, improve infrastructure, and invest in sustainable farming practices. By easing financial barriers, the program aims to empower farmers to increase productivity, enhance profitability, and drive long-term sustainability, ultimately contributing to the strength and resilience of the agricultural sector.

Eligibility Criteria

Participating in the Fidelity GreenTech Innovation Challenge offers a multitude of benefits including:

  • Must be an agroecology enterpreneur.
  • Must have been operating for at least 2 years.
  • Must demonstrate positive social or economic impact.
  • Must be primarily serving the domestic market in Ghana.
  • Female-led businesses are especially encouraged to apply.
  • The entrepreneur must be available for the duration of the program and be willing and open to receiving technical support to enhance their business operations.
  • The business should prioritize environmentally sustainable practices and exhibit a commitment to social responsibility.

Programme Benefits

This is what you can get from our programme.

Technical Assistance

Tailored Technical Assistance support to suit the needs of selected businesses.

Increase Operational Capacity

Innovations reducing post-harvest losses and adding value to agricultural products.

High Value Impact

Strengthening the social, economic and environmental impact of the business.

Funding Support

Providing support through funding to businesses.

Access To Markets

Access to partners and key stakeholders in the agroecological ecosystem