Africa Growth Fund

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Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund

Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund

A premier, US $200 million impact investing initiative designed to support substantial long-term economic growth

Learn More

A premier, US $200 million impact investing initiative designed to support substantial long-term economic growth

Learn More
Built for Growth

The Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund strives to bring real economic growth to the continent. How? By providing capital and business development services to Investment Vehicles and the small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their portfolio of companies, particularly those guided by gender-equity principles.

Employment — and more specifically, formal employment — is a leading pathway out of poverty for families. Our goal is to support Africa’s economic growth by creating dignified and fulfilling work for young people, particularly young women, in sub-Saharan Africa.

Our innovative and proactive approach will help the continent achieve its development agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, as well as reshape the African impact investing ecosystem to encourage investment by decreasing risk.

Investment Committee
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Countries of Focus
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A Gender Lens Magnifies Success

Investment Vehicles funded by the  Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund prioritizes growth oriented small and medium enterprises  which are often overlooked by venture capital investors. Ensuring African entrepreneurs, especially women, succeed is not only good for the business owners — it is also good for their communities, the continent, and investors. Research shows that investing in businesses that include women in leadership positions can result in long-term value creation and stronger financial performance.

Be Part of the Change!

The Africa Growth Fund DOES NOT invest directly in small and medium-sized enterprises. Instead, it provides capital to selected Investment Vehicles, which then distribute funding to businesses that meet their criteria. If you MANAGE A FUND and want to get involved, we invite you to learn more about us and submit an application.

Apply Today

 

Sustainable Development Goals

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Partners

The Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund is the largest impact investing program of its kind. It is made possible by the Mastercard Foundation in collaboration with the Mennonite Economic Development Associates and a consortium of partners. Each partner plays a unique role in the program based on their area of expertise.