Scaling digital Agriculture Innovations through Start-ups (SAIS)

Scaling Digital Agriculture Innovations through Start-ups (SAIS) is a program implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It focuses on developing and accelerating African tech start-ups in the agriculture, food, and livestock sectors. The program aims to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by supporting start-ups with tailored services to become investment-ready.

SAIS provides various support streams, including Investment Readiness Programs for English and French-speaking Africa, an Investment Readiness Programme for livestock tech start-ups from Africa, and an incubation and acceleration programme for start-ups in Sri Lanka focusing on reducing food and plastic waste and circular economy approaches.

The program offers tailored services to start-ups, including investment readiness training, mentorship, and access to a network of investors and industry experts.

<p><strong>What are the eligibility criteria for SAIS?</strong></p><p>SAIS is open to tech start-ups in the agriculture, food, and livestock sectors, particularly those at the pre-seed and seed stages. Start-ups should demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and innovation.</p><p><strong>How does the application process work?</strong></p><p>Interested start-ups can apply through the SAIS website by submitting a detailed start-up profile. The application process includes an evaluation of the start-up's business model and potential impact.</p><p><strong>What are the deal terms for participating start-ups?</strong></p><p>SAIS does not disclose specific deal terms publicly, but it focuses on enhancing investment readiness rather than direct investment.</p><p><strong>What is the program format?</strong></p><p>The program includes a mix of in-person and virtual components, with mentorship sessions, workshops, and networking events designed to support start-ups in their growth journey.</p><p><strong>What makes SAIS different from other accelerators?</strong></p><p>SAIS is uniquely positioned as it is backed by GIZ and focuses specifically on the African agtech sector, providing tailored support that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.</p><p><strong>What metrics does SAIS use to measure success?</strong></p><p>Success is measured by the number of start-ups that achieve investment readiness, the amount of follow-on funding raised, and the overall impact of the start-ups on their respective markets.</p>