Hivos East Africa gives grants of $10,000–$100,000 to green startups and SMEs in Tanzania, plus mentorship. Women and youth-led businesses get priority; you must be registered and have a clear environmental or social impact model.
Hivos East Africa supports green and sustainable enterprises in Tanzania through grants and business development services targeting SMEs and startups in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy sectors. Grantees receive both financial support and mentorship to scale climate-positive business models. The programme prioritises women-led and youth-led enterprises.
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Hivos reviews all applications for completeness and eligibility, then conducts due diligence on shortlisted applicants. Due diligence typically includes background checks on the founders, verification of registration, and assessment of the business model's viability and environmental impact. Approved applicants are notified and funding is released according to the grant agreement terms.
What reviewers look for
Usually this means the founder, co-founder, or majority shareholder is under 35 (for youth) or a woman. Hivos may ask for proof of ownership or governance. Check the application form for their exact definition.
Yes. The programme targets startups, so early-stage businesses are eligible. You must still be formally registered.
The programme uses rolling applications, meaning there is no single closing date. However, Hivos may open and close application windows; check their website regularly or contact them to confirm when the next intake begins.
Hivos will perform due diligence, which includes checking your registration, reviewing your business model, and verifying information about your team. This typically takes 4–8 weeks. You will be informed of the outcome by email.
No, this is a grant, not a loan. However, you will be expected to report on how you used the funds and the environmental or social impact you achieved.
Guide written from the official programme page on 15 October 2026. Funders change their rules, so confirm the details on the official page before you apply.
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