SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme 2027: Up to €15,000 Support for African Start-ups

The SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme 2027 is now open for applications. This programme aims to support African start-ups focused on technology-driven solutions in the dairy and aquaculture sectors. If you have a business ready to scale and attract investment, this opportunity could provide the resources you need.

Application Closing Date: November 15, 2026
Location: Africa
Programme Duration: One year
Stipend: Up to €15,000 in technical assistance
Opportunity Type: Investment Readiness Programme

About the SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme

The SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme is designed to help innovative African start-ups grow. It specifically targets businesses working within dairy, aquaculture, and livestock value chains. The programme focuses on areas such as animal nutrition, feed, genetics, animal health, and sustainable production methods.

This is a one-year support programme that offers tailored assistance. It aims to prepare businesses for investment and scale their impact. The programme provides a structured approach to development, helping start-ups refine their products, strategies, and market reach.

About SAIS

SAIS, which stands for the “Support Facility for African Innovation and Start-ups,” is an initiative dedicated to fostering innovation across the African continent. It works to connect promising start-ups with the resources, networks, and funding needed to succeed. SAIS supports a variety of sectors, with a particular emphasis on technology-driven solutions that address key challenges and opportunities in Africa.

Available Opportunities

The SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme focuses on start-ups within specific value chains and technological areas. While not listing specific job roles, the programme supports businesses in:

• Dairy value chains, with a focus on animal health, genetics, and feed.
• Aquaculture value chains, particularly innovations in genetics and feed.
• Broader livestock value chains, including sustainable production and technology scaling.

What the Programme Offers

Successful applicants will benefit from a comprehensive support package designed to accelerate their growth and investment readiness. The benefits include:

• Technical Assistance Budget: Up to €15,000 to cover consultancies, expert advice, legal services, online marketing, licenses, certifications, and product optimization.
• In-Person Events: Fully sponsored trips to two in-person community events alongside the Sankalp Africa Summit in Nairobi, plus attendance at one additional sector conference.
• Investment and Partnership Facilitation: Access to invite-only pitch sessions with investors, bespoke introductions to investors and funds, and guidance on fundraising strategies and due diligence.
• Community Access: Membership in a network of over 100 portfolio companies.
• Additional Opportunities: Eligible start-ups can apply for the SAIS Scale-up Grant (up to €40,000) and access revolving working capital loans (up to €50,000).

Programme Duration and Location

The programme provides one year of tailored support. It is open to start-ups registered and operating within Africa. While the programme has a continental focus, specific areas of interest are highlighted for dairy and aquaculture in East and West Africa, respectively.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme, start-ups must meet the following criteria:

• Be a for-profit entity registered in Africa.
• Have a management team of at least two people.
• Be at the pre-seed through Series A funding stage.
• Have at least a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), ideally with recurring revenue, paying customers, and established partnerships.
• Be strengthening value chains in dairy and aquaculture.
• Utilize technology to scale their operations.

Start-ups from other African countries are welcome to apply if they can demonstrate how their innovations offer relevant learnings or opportunities for the priority value chains.

Competencies Required

The programme seeks innovative and technology-driven start-ups. Key areas of focus include:

• Dairy: Animal health, genetics, and feed innovations.
• Aquaculture: Genetics and feed innovations.
• Solutions that strengthen livestock value chains across Africa.
• A strong focus on scaling impact through technology.

Who Should Apply?

This programme is ideal for ambitious African entrepreneurs who have developed technology-driven solutions for the dairy or aquaculture sectors. If your start-up has a proven product or service, a dedicated team, and is actively seeking investment to expand its market reach and impact, you should consider applying. It is particularly suited for businesses looking to refine their investment strategy and connect with potential investors.

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide the following documents as part of their application:

• Updated CV for management team members.
• Company registration documents.
• Details of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
• Information on current revenue, customers, and partnerships.
• A clear description of the technology used and its scaling potential.
• Any other documents requested through the online application portal.

How to Apply

Interested start-ups can apply for the SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme 2027 through the official application portal.

Click here to apply

Applicants are advised to carefully review all requirements and prepare their application materials thoroughly before submitting. Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete.

For more detailed information, visit the official SAIS website.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date of November 15, 2026.
• All applicants must meet the minimum eligibility criteria.
• Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the SAIS Livestock Investment Readiness Programme 2027 is November 15, 2026.

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