The Facility Investing for Employment (IFE) has launched a new call for proposals in Egypt, targeting projects that can deliver measurable job creation across the private sector. Through co-financing grants, the initiative aims to support organisations with strong, scalable investment plans. The application window remains open until 30 June 2026.
The initiative is designed to address one of Egypt’s key economic priorities which is job creation. By supporting investment projects and workforce development, the programme aims to strengthen businesses while improving employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
Funding Model Targets Job Creation Across Sectors
At the centre of the programme is a job creation component that supports projects capable of generating sustainable employment. The funding is structured to reduce barriers to investment and encourage both private and public sector participation.
Eligible projects can include investments in production facilities, equipment and workforce training, as long as they are directly linked to creating jobs. The facility offers grants ranging from EUR 800,000 to EUR 10 million per project, making it a significant funding opportunity for organisations with scalable ideas.
The scheme is open to four categories of projects. Not-for-profit initiatives without revenue generation can receive up to 90 percent of investment costs, while those with revenue generation can receive up to 75 percent. For-profit projects where most jobs are created at third-party entities are eligible for up to 35 percent co-financing, while those creating jobs within their own operations can receive up to 25 percent.
Only mature projects that have not yet started and show strong potential for operational and financial sustainability will be considered. Applicants are also required to contribute their own funding, ensuring shared responsibility and long-term commitment to the projects.
This structure is expected to attract serious investors and organisations that are ready to implement impactful projects, while also ensuring that funded initiatives remain viable beyond the grant period.
New Training Component Expands Long-Term Impact
In 2026, IFE has introduced an additional training component that strengthens the long-term value of the programme. Applicants can now apply for co-financing to support skills development initiatives aligned with labour market needs.
This component focuses on improving the quality of vocational training in Egypt, while also opening pathways for potential employment opportunities in Germany. It reflects a broader strategy to connect skills development with real job outcomes both locally and internationally.
Priority sectors for this training support include construction, metal and electrical industries, education and social services, food processing, transport and logistics, information technology, healthcare, and tourism and hospitality.
Eligible activities include building and upgrading training facilities such as classrooms and workshops, as well as providing language training and technical skills development. Projects that include this training element will receive preferential consideration during evaluation, highlighting the importance placed on workforce readiness.
The application process will take place in two stages. First, concept notes will be submitted and reviewed for pre-selection. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit full proposals for detailed evaluation. Successful projects will be awarded grant contracts.
To support applicants, IFE has set up a Helpdesk to provide guidance on the application process and funding requirements. In addition, a series of webinars will be held on 23 April, 7 May, 21 May and 11 June 2026. These sessions will offer further information on eligibility criteria and how to apply.
The Facility Investing for Employment was established by KfW Development Bank on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development under the Special Initiative “Decent Work for a Just Transition”, operating as part of Invest for Jobs.
