Calling African innovators in the livestock sector — Applications are open
Are you building a tech or digital solution for livestock farming in Africa? SAIS is now scouting high-impact start-ups for the 2026 cohort, and the Livestock Track is open for applications.
What is SAIS?
SAIS (Scaling digital Agriculture Innovations through Start-ups) is a company development and accelerator programme for African tech start-ups. Since 2019, we’ve supported 100+ start-ups from 22 African countries, of which over 70% of them have gone on to raise follow-on funding, collectively exceeding $98M USD.
The programme is implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), with co-funding from the Gates Foundation.
What’s on the table
Every selected start-up receives up to 20,000 EUR in in-kind support, including:
- Mentorship and coaching from local and international experts
- Legal advice, pitch training, marketing, and digital product support
- Access to investor networks and fundraising guidance
- In-person events at the Africa Tech Summit Nairobi, SAIStival, or GITEX Africa
Strong performers can access an additional 20,000 EUR through SAIS+, bringing the total in-kind support to 40,000 EUR.
In addition, a working capital loan of up to 50,000 EUR is available through our partner Melanie Kapital, only after selection based on performance and business needs.
Who should apply
Your start-up must:
- Be registered in Africa
- Be for-profit with a management team of at least two people
- Have a tech or digital solution for the livestock value chain
- Have an MVP and evidence of traction (paying customers or first revenue)
- Contribute to climate adaptation, income generation, or food & nutrition security
Apply now
Application Form → SAIS Application Livestock
Deadline: 24.04.2026
Questions? Reach out at sais@giz.de