The Africa Agri-Food Development Programme (AADP) supports and enables Irish and African companies to realize their ambition of doing business together in Africa through matched grant funding for feasibility studies and full commercial projects.
Please read the eligibility criteria carefully before submitting your application.
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When is the Application Deadline:
August 15, 2025 (5:00 PM Dublin Time)
Tell Me About The Award:
The Africa Agri-Food Development Programme (AADP) is a grant scheme funded by the Government of Ireland through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The program supports partnerships between Irish and African agri-food companies to develop sustainable, innovative, and scalable projects that contribute to food system transformation and mutual trade.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
All agri-food businesses and sectors focused on commercial innovation and sustainability are eligible.
Type:
Matched Grant Funding for:
- Feasibility Studies (up to €100,000)
- Full Commercial Projects (up to €250,000)
Who can Apply?
- Irish-registered agri-food companies (must be operational for at least 24 months)
- African-registered agri-food businesses in eligible countries (for partnerships or feasibility studies)
- Must be commercially focused and revenue-generating
- Open to all business types: SMEs, cooperatives, farming groups, social enterprises, etc.
How are Applicants Selected?
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Development impact
- Commercial viability
- Technical and financial capacity
- Innovation and sustainability
- Risk and expenditure monitoring
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Irish applicants must partner with businesses in one or more of the following 19 African countries:
Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Namibia, Nigeria, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Where will the Award be Taken?
Projects must be implemented in Africa (in the eligible countries). Some feasibility work may occur in Ireland, but capital expenditure in Ireland requires prior approval.
How Many Awards?
No fixed number — grants will be awarded based on project merit and available funding.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Matched funding up to:
- €100,000 for feasibility studies
- €250,000 for full projects
- Supports business development, technical assistance, and market growth
- Encourages sustainable trade between Ireland and Africa
- Promotes long-term social and economic development
How Long Will the Award Last?
Project timelines vary by proposal but typically cover feasibility phases or multi-year commercial implementations.
How to Apply:
- Download the appropriate application form (Feasibility Study or Full Commercial Project).
- Complete the form in full.
- Gather required documents (tax clearance cert, budget, timelines, collaboration plans).
- Submit via email to: aadp@dfa.ie before August 15, 2025 (5:00 PM Dublin time).
- Join the pre-application information sessions on July 3 and July 24 for guidance.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
👉 Africa Agri-Food Development Programme – DFA
