Big Opportunity for African Agribusinesses: Apply for the 2025 Irish AgriFood Development Grant: Are you running or planning a food-related business in Africa and looking for a way to take it to the next level? Here’s some great news: the Government of Ireland is currently accepting applications for the Africa AgriFood Development Programme (AADP) 2025 and your business could be eligible for up to €250,000 in funding!
This program is focused on building powerful partnerships between African agri-food businesses and Irish companies, with the ultimate goal of growing local food industries and improving food systems sustainably.
Whether you’re based in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, or any of the ten eligible African countries, this could be a golden opportunity to scale up, innovate, and reach new markets.
What is the AADP?
The AADP is a joint effort by Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of Foreign Affairs. Their mission is simple which is to support African agribusinesses through meaningful partnerships and private investment.
Instead of focusing on aid alone, the programme encourages mutual trade and shared expertise, where both Irish and African companies benefit. It’s a smart and sustainable way to build lasting economic impact.
This is what should Know about 2025 Irish AgriFood Development Grant
- Organizer: Government of Ireland
- Type of Support: Business grant
- Funding Amount: Up to €250,000 for full projects or €100,000 for feasibility studies
- Eligible Regions: Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Malawi, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia
- Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
- IELTS Required: No
Who Can Apply for the 2025 Irish AgriFood Development Grant
Not every business can apply but if you meet the criteria below, you’re good to go:
- Your project must include one Irish-registered agri-food company and one African partner.
- It must be commercial in nature this isn’t a grant for charity or non-profits.
- The Irish partner must match at least 50% of the project funding, and cannot use any other Irish public funds for their part.
- If you’ve received AADP funding before, your new proposal must be different and explain how it builds on your previous work.
If you’re applying for a feasibility study, be sure to list potential African partners.
Projects should aim to deliver long-term development benefits and support sustainable agri-food systems.
Bonus tip: Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with Irish NGOs for help with engineering, design, and technical aspects.
What’s In It for You?
Here are some benefits of joining the AADP:
- Access up to €250,000 in direct project funding
- Get technical guidance from experienced Irish agri-food companies
- Open doors to new markets and sustainable expansion
- Build lasting business relationships
- Develop solutions that make a real impact in your community.
What Will Make Your Application Stand Out?
Every application will be reviewed based on:
- Development impact: Will your project truly help local communities?
- Expertise: Do your companies have the knowledge and skills to succeed?
- Business strength: Is the project commercially viable?
- Risk planning: Have you thought through potential risks?
- Budget transparency: Can you show how the funds will be spent and monitored?
How To Apply: Step-by-Ste
Getting started is simple. Here’s what to do:
1. Head over to the official AADP page
2. Download the correct form there are two types:
- One for full project funding
- One for feasibility studies
3. Complete the form carefully
Be clear about your goals, costs, and expected outcomes.
4. Email your application to: aadp@dfa.ie
Make sure you send it before August 15, 2025 (close of business).
5. Keep an eye on updates
Monitor the official site or you can follow the Department of Foreign Affairs on thier social media handles
Need Help or Have Questions?
No worries if anything is unclear, you can reach out directly at:
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Conclusion
This isn’t just another grant. It’s a rare opportunity to grow your business with the support of an international partner one that’s serious about sustainability and development. If your business has a clear vision and the right partners, now’s the time to act.
Don’t wait till the deadline before you will register. Start preparing your proposal today and take one bold step toward a bigger future for your agri-food business.
