AJF × SDRB Somalia Business Plan Competition 2026 For Export Businesses

October 21, 2026

AJF × SDRB Somalia Business Plan Competition 2026

Brief Description

The AJF × SDRB Somalia Business Plan Competition 2026 is a major funding initiative launched by the Africa Jobs Fund (AJF) and the Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank (SDRB) to discover and support the next generation of Somali export businesses. Offering seed funding of $20,000 for the winner, pilot investments up to $100,000, and a potential scale-up pathway reaching $1,000,000, this program is designed for ambitious founders, operating teams, and innovators ready to build productive enterprises. Whether you are already running a company, developing an early-stage venture, or starting with a well-researched idea, this competition invites you to scale your vision. Prior traction is not required, making it an ideal platform if you have a strong connection to Somalia and the drive to execute.

Name of Host Institution

The Africa Jobs Fund (AJF) and the Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank (SDRB)

Requirements/Eligibility Criteria

Must have a connection to Somalia (Somalis and members of the Somali diaspora worldwide are strongly encouraged to apply, even if not currently based in the region).
Must be prepared to commit full-time to building and operating the venture.
Must target productive and export-oriented sectors, including agriculture, livestock, fisheries, natural products, light manufacturing, or export infrastructure.
Must show strong judgment, initiative, and an ability to execute.
Must understand key business assumptions, risks, and economic value creation.

Submission Requirements

Applicant and team information.
A description of your connection to Somalia.
A concept note of no more than two pages (or a pitch deck/detailed financial model if you already have one).
CVs for all core founders or operating team members.
A one-minute introduction video.

Deadline

November 6, 2026

Apply Now

💡 Quick FAQ & IntelligenceTap to Expand

Q: Do I need prior business traction to enter the competition?

📌 Read More

Editor’s Picks

No, prior traction is not required; you can apply if you are running an existing company, developing an early-stage venture, or starting with a well-researched idea.

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Q: What are the funding amounts available to participating ventures?

The winner receives $20,000 to seed the project, strong projects can receive up to $100,000 to develop a pilot, and successful pilots have a potential pathway to scale-up investment of up to $1,000,000.

Q: Which business sectors are eligible for support?