Neycha Accelerator & Fund supports forward-thinking entrepreneurs and innovators striving to transform the food system into a more sustainable, regenerative, and agroecological model. Covering the entire value chain—from input supply to processing and consumption—Neycha empowers businesses that promote a circular and holistic agrifood economy in East Africa.

Neycha finds and collaborates with growth-oriented Agroecological Enterprises (AEEs) in Kenya and Uganda, giving them the resources, connections, and expertise they require to expand their businesses and impact.

Eligibility

Enterprises Rooted in Agroecology

These enterprises are deeply committed to agroecological principles, aiming to create a positive impact within the agricultural sector. They operate across various points of the agricultural value chain, actively supporting farmers in transitioning to sustainable practices and aligning their operations with the 13 key principles of agroecology.

Core Characteristics:

• Value Chain Focus: The business model is built around an agri-food system.
• Farmer Engagement: Directly or indirectly connected to smallholder farmers by offering organic inputs, essential support services, or market access for their produce.
• Organic & Sustainable Practices: Prioritizing the use of organic inputs throughout their value chain.
• Beyond the Single-Farm Model: Led by entrepreneurial farmers with operations that extend beyond individual farms.
• Environmental Responsibility: Incorporating eco-friendly initiatives such as waste management, recycling, and resource efficiency.
• Health & Nutrition-Oriented: Producing and advocating for the consumption of nutritious, wholesome food.
• Innovative & Sustainable Inputs: Supplying inputs and technologies that foster sustainable food production, such as efficient irrigation systems and post-harvest storage solutions.

These enterprises play a crucial role in shaping a resilient and sustainable agricultural future by integrating agroecological values into their business operations.

Eligibility Criteria for Businesses

To qualify, businesses must meet the following requirements:

• Legally Registered: A for-profit private enterprise operating in Uganda and/or Kenya.
• Established & Revenue-Generating: Must have been in operation for at least three years, beyond the pilot phase, with an existing customer base and an annual revenue of at least $40,000 (or the equivalent in local currency).
• Market Opportunity & Business Viability: Should demonstrate a clear market demand and a strong value proposition, even if not fully documented. The key focus is on having a sustainable and scalable business model.
• Profitability Pathway: The business should already be profitable or have a well-defined strategy to achieve profitability.
• Financial Records: Must provide at least three years of audited financial statements or a minimum of 24 months of management accounts.
• Growth-Oriented: Should have a structured vision for expansion over the next 2–3 years. A formal business plan is not required, but the company should have a clear direction for scaling.
• Commitment to Growth: Open to enhancing internal capacity and attracting investment to drive future growth.

Businesses that align with these criteria are well-positioned to leverage funding and support opportunities for expansion.

Team Requirements

Businesses should have a dedicated and mission-driven team that meets the following criteria:

• Passion for Agroecology: Founders should be committed to agroecological principles, even if they were not previously familiar with the term. What matters is enthusiasm for sustainability and regenerative practices.
• Locally Led: At least one founder must be a citizen of Uganda or Kenya.
• Team Structure: The business should have a minimum of two additional employees, with at least one founder fully dedicated to running the company.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Founders should be problem-solvers, ambitious, and willing to take risks to grow a thriving enterprise.
• Commitment to Growth: Must be open to collaborating with Neycha to scale operations and increase impact.
• Relevant Experience (Preferred, Not Required): Prior experience in business or startups, ideally within a related sector, is beneficial but not mandatory for selection.

This ensures that the enterprise is driven by a capable and committed team, ready to expand and create meaningful change.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 30th April ,2025.