Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund Homepage
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Africa Growth Fund

Thank you for your interest

Due to an extraordinary response from the investment community, our application portal is currently closed as we review the current investment vehicles in our portfolio. We invite you to stay connected for updates via our website, newsletter, and social media channels.

Thank you for your enthusiasm and continued interest in the Fund.

How We Select Investment Vehicles

Selecting Investment Vehicles for the Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund is a meticulous process. Each Investment Vehicle undergoes careful screening to ensure alignment with our Investment Policy and eligibility criteria, including a strong commitment to advancing gender equity in entrepreneurship.

 

 

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Investment Criteria

We Are Prioritizing Specific Funds

The Fund invests in African-owned and African-led Fund Managers, including Female-led fund managers, first-time fund managers, private equity funds, venture capital funds, debt funds, permanent capital vehicles, etc. These funds need to demonstrate commitment to gender, diversity, equity, and inclusion; they should invest in SMEs with a ticket size range between US$50k to US$4 million that invest in high-impact sectors and operate in Sub-Saharan Africa.

We welcome applications throughout the Sub-Saharan African region and in countries aligned with the Young Africa Work (YAW) strategy, namely Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, and Uganda.

Funds Must Invest in Key Industries Aligning with Promising Sub-Saharan Opportunities

Our investment lens is set on the dynamic landscape of sub-Saharan Africa, where possibilities abound. We maintain a sector-agnostic approach, welcoming opportunities in specific industries that align with our mission:

  • Agribusiness
  • Light Manufacturing
  • Education
  • Health
  • Technology and Innovation
  • Hospitality and Tourism

Funds Must Demonstrate a Dedication to Gender, Diversity Equity and Inclusion

We actively seek and collaborate with Investment Vehicles dedicated to advancing gender equity in entrepreneurship. Investment Vehicles must implement strategies and practices that address gender-related considerations throughout the investment cycle. This approach aims to eliminate biases and enhance women’s access to investment capital, supporting women-owned businesses.