Agribusinesses and technology firms working with smallholder farmers across Africa and South Asia can now compete for up to $2.5 million in funding under a new agricultural support programme launched by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.
- Agribusinesses and technology firms working with smallholder farmers across Africa and South Asia can now compete for up to $2.5...
- The initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of technology, climate-smart farming practices, and digital solutions to strengthen food systems and...
- Focus on Technology and Climate Resilience The grant programme places strong emphasis on agricultural innovation and climate adaptation.
- Eligible activities include pilot projects, operational expansion, farmer training programmes, digital literacy initiatives, and technical assistance for agribusinesses.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on agribusiness — everything you need to know is covered below.
The initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of technology, climate-smart farming practices, and digital solutions to strengthen food systems and improve rural livelihoods.
The 2026 IFC Agritech Modernisation Grant targets organisations that have established links with smallholder farmers and can demonstrate the ability to deliver technology-driven agricultural projects. Funding will range from $100,000 to $2.5 million, with applications closing on 10 October 2026. The programme seeks to support projects that raise productivity, boost incomes, and enhance food security in regions facing growing environmental and economic pressures.
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Focus on Technology and Climate Resilience
The grant programme places strong emphasis on agricultural innovation and climate adaptation. Supported projects may include digital agriculture, precision farming, sustainable supply chains, climate-smart agricultural practices, and technology-enabled food security solutions.
According to the IFC, the initiative aims to encourage the adoption of modern farming approaches while helping agricultural systems become more resilient to climate-related challenges.
Applicants are expected to propose scalable projects capable of delivering measurable social and economic outcomes. The programme prioritises efforts that promote inclusive agricultural growth, strengthen rural livelihoods, and support long-term food system transformation.
Wide Range of Eligible Activities
Funding can be used across several areas of agricultural development. Eligible activities include pilot projects, operational expansion, farmer training programmes, digital literacy initiatives, and technical assistance for agribusinesses. Organisations may also seek support for climate adaptation projects, sustainability initiatives, market research, feasibility studies, and supply chain assessments.
The grant also covers the acquisition of agricultural technologies, irrigation systems, climate monitoring tools, software platforms, and data-driven solutions. In addition, funding may be allocated to monitoring, evaluation, and impact measurement activities that help track project performance and outcomes.
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is open to agribusiness companies, agricultural cooperatives, agritech startups, and enterprises with established smallholder farmer networks operating in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Applicants must demonstrate proven engagement with farming communities and provide clear plans to implement technology-based agricultural interventions.
The IFC estimates that the online application process takes around 15 minutes to complete. Successful proposals must align with World Bank Group standards on sustainability, governance, and development impact. Funding decisions are expected within four to six weeks after submission.
Supporting Agricultural Transformation
Operating in more than 100 countries, the IFC plays a leading role in financing private sector development through investments, advisory services, and grant programmes. Through the Agritech Modernisation Grant, the organisation hopes to strengthen agricultural resilience, encourage innovation, and create new opportunities for smallholder farmers in emerging economies.