A new partnership between ClimateShot Investor Coalition and FINCA International is expected to strengthen the growth of agricultural small and medium-sized enterprises across sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative is designed to support businesses that are already scaling and are looking for commercial capital while integrating climate and nature positive practices into their operations.
The collaboration focuses on agri-SMEs under the Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems category. These are businesses that are not only producing food but are also working to protect the environment and improve long-term sustainability. By combining funding opportunities with technical support, the initiative aims to close a key gap that many African entrepreneurs face when trying to grow their businesses responsibly.
Through this partnership, selected SMEs will have access to tailored support. This includes technical assistance provided through the CLIC Agrifood Investment Connector as well as potential funding from FINCA International. Some businesses may benefit from both forms of support, giving them a stronger foundation to scale their operations and attract further investment.
The CLIC Agrifood Investment Connector, supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office under its Research, Science and Technology program, plays a central role in this effort. It is designed to help businesses clearly demonstrate their impact on climate, nature and biodiversity. This is increasingly important as investors look for companies that can deliver both financial returns and measurable environmental outcomes.
Participating SMEs will receive guidance to better understand the environmental risks and impacts linked to their operations. They will also be supported in identifying the right metrics to measure and communicate their impact. This is expected to improve how these businesses present themselves to investors and partners.
In addition, the program will help entrepreneurs develop strong and effective materials for investor engagement. It will also connect them with suitable investors, increasing their chances of securing the capital needed for expansion. Beyond funding, the initiative opens doors to global platforms where these businesses can gain visibility.
Selected SMEs will have the opportunity to attend the Africa Food Systems Forum in Kigali in September 2026. They will also be able to pitch their businesses at the CLIC-AFSF Climate and Nature deal room during the forum. This exposure is expected to position them directly in front of investors and stakeholders who are actively seeking climate-smart solutions in agriculture.
Applications for the program are open until April 10. For many agri-SMEs in sub-Saharan Africa, this initiative represents a practical pathway to scale sustainably, access funding and contribute to building a more resilient and environmentally responsible agricultural sector.
