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Grants / Business and commerce

U.S.-Africa Strategic Investment Program

Bureau of African Affairs, Department of State

Deadline
May 31, 2027
Award size
$5 million to $50 millionAbout 10 awards
Matching funds
Not required
Fit for small groups
Better for larger organizations

In plain language

This grant helps fund projects that support business and commerce in sub-Saharan Africa. It focuses on growing the economy through investments and commercial activities. The money is meant for organizations that can help create economic opportunities.

The money can pay for

  • Investing in business and commerce
  • Supporting economic growth
  • Encouraging foreign investment
  • Creating jobs and opportunities

Who can apply

For-profit organizations, nonprofits, small businesses, and public institutions can apply, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria listed.

Is it a fit for a small group?

Better for larger organizations. This grant is meant for larger organizations and focuses on business and commerce in Africa, which may not align with the work of a small community nonprofit.

Before you apply

  • Eligibility includes for-profit organizations and institutions of higher education
  • Projects must benefit sub-Saharan African countries
  • No matching funds are required
  • Federal applicants need an active registration at SAM.gov and a Grants.gov account. Registration can take several weeks, so start early.

This summary was written by GrantGather with AI, based on the official listing. It can contain mistakes. Check the official listing on Grants.gov before you apply.

From the official listing

The U.S.-Africa Strategic Investment Program advances America's national interests by harnessing market-based, private sector-led growth across two strategic focus areas: Critical Minerals Investment and Commercial Diplomacy Acceleration. This program seeks market-based solutions that strengthen the environment for foreign investment in sub-Saharan Africa through transparent and competitive processes, creating sustainable economic growth in two strategic focus areas. Projects must demonstrate clear, measurable benefits to one or more sub-Saharan countries, such as increased investment from high-quality U.S. and U.S.-aligned companies. Applicants are also encouraged to identify how their projects create conditions that enable U.S. commercial participation.

Opportunity number
DFOP0019410
Posted
August 19, 2026
Total funding
$500 million
Eligible applicants
For profit organizations other than small businesses
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Others (see eligibility details)
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
Small businesses
Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
Eligibility details
Public International Organizations are also eligible to apply. See APS for full eligibility criteria.
Assistance listing
19.989 State/African Regional - Other Economic Support Funds (ESF) Projects/Programs
Agency contact
Bureau of African Affairs
AF-A-Proposals@state.gov
202-890-9795
Open the official listing on Grants.govAgency’s full announcement