WASSMAS Opens Applications for $10,000 Agriculture Grant for West African Agro-Entrepreneurs

The West African Support for Small and Mid-Scale Agro Startup (WASSMAS) has opened applications for its Agriculture Grant programme, offering funding of up to $10,000 to support small and mid-scale agro-entrepreneurs across West Africa. The initiative is aimed at strengthening agricultural productivity, improving food security, and enabling sustainable agribusiness growth in the region.

The grant targets entrepreneurs operating across the agricultural value chain, including crop farming, livestock production, fish farming, agro-processing, and integrated farming systems. In addition to financial support, beneficiaries will receive capacity building, technical assistance, and access to market opportunities designed to help them scale their operations.

About the WASSMAS Agriculture Grant

WASSMAS is an agricultural support organisation focused on empowering local agribusinesses by addressing one of the sector’s biggest challenges: limited access to finance and technical resources. Through its agriculture grant programme, the organisation aims to help viable agro-enterprises expand production, adopt better technologies, and improve operational efficiency.

Successful applicants will receive grant funding ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the scale and nature of their projects. The programme is structured to support businesses at different stages, from early-stage ventures to growing operations seeking expansion capital.

Who Is Eligible to Apply

The WASSMAS Agriculture Grant is open to small and mid-scale agro-entrepreneurs based in eligible West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and other countries in the sub-region.

To qualify, applicants must:

• Operate an active agricultural business within an eligible country

• Be involved in crop production, livestock farming, aquaculture, agro-processing, or integrated farming

• Submit a clear business plan and budget

• Complete the required eligibility questionnaire

• Provide proof of land ownership or a valid lease agreement, where applicable

Both individual entrepreneurs and agribusiness entities are encouraged to apply.

Funding Structure and Project Timelines

Grant funds will be disbursed in stages, tied to clearly defined project milestones. This approach is intended to ensure accountability and measurable impact throughout the implementation period.

Processing timelines vary depending on the agricultural focus area and typically range from 25 to 70 days, covering sectors such as crop farming, livestock production, fish farming, agro-processing, and integrated agricultural systems.

Beyond Funding: Training and Market Access

Beyond financial support, WASSMAS places strong emphasis on capacity building. Grant recipients will benefit from:

• Business and financial management training

• Technical agricultural support

• Exposure to sustainable and modern farming practices

• Access to buyers, distributors, and agribusiness networks

This integrated support model is designed to improve long-term sustainability and reduce the risk of business failure.

Why the Grant Matters

Across West Africa, many agro-entrepreneurs struggle to access affordable capital and professional support, limiting their ability to grow and compete. The WASSMAS Agriculture Grant addresses this gap by combining funding with practical skills development and market linkages.

By supporting small and mid-scale agribusinesses, the programme contributes to job creation, rural development, and food security, while encouraging innovation within the agricultural sector.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can access full programme details and submit their applications through the official WASSMAS website at www.wassmas.org. While no specific closing date has been announced, early applications are strongly encouraged due to limited funding slots.