Villgro Africa Health Equity for Africa Program 2025: Apply Now

The Health Equity for Africa Programme is a groundbreaking initiative designed to strengthen healthcare innovation and access across Sub-Saharan Africa. Spearheaded by Boehringer Ingelheim and Villgro Africa, this programme backs health-focused, for-profit businesses that are already creating impact within African communities.

With tailored business support, funding of up to $80,000, and a platform for global exposure, the programme is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to scale their health ventures and extend their impact.

What the Programme Offers

The Health Equity for Africa Programme delivers comprehensive support over a 12-month period, split into two distinct phases: Incubation and Acceleration. Each phase is designed to build business capacity, enhance investment readiness, and improve health service delivery across Africa.

Programme Structure

1. Incubation Phase (First 6 Months)

During this phase, selected businesses will receive intensive coaching and strategic planning support. Key features include:

Weekly one-on-one coaching sessions with a dedicated portfolio manager.
Monthly masterclasses focusing on business modeling, market positioning, and investment strategies.
Targeted grant funding to address critical business needs.
A final pitch event to determine progression into the acceleration phase.

Note: Not all participants in the incubation phase will advance to the next stage.

2. Acceleration Phase (Following 6 Months)

For businesses that progress, the acceleration phase provides a high-level growth platform, including:

Bi-weekly strategy sessions with expert mentors and advisors.
Industry engagement panels with key players in African and global healthcare.
Access to research tools and networks to enhance evidence-based work.
Investor matchmaking opportunities facilitated by Boehringer Ingelheim and Villgro Africa.
A chance to showcase your work at the Making More Health Together (MMH T) event in Germany.

Benefits of Joining the Programme

Businesses selected for the Health Equity for Africa Programme will gain access to:

Up to $80,000 in non-dilutive grant funding.
12 months of intensive business coaching from sector experts.
Direct connections with impact investors and funding institutions.
Tailored business reviews and development plans.
Global visibility through participation in high-level events such as the MMH Together conference.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the programme, your business must meet the following requirements:

Be a for-profit health business operating in at least one African country.
Have a minimum annual revenue of $250,000 and be active in the market.
Serve a minimum of 60,000 individuals annually, improving healthcare access.
Have at least three years of operational history with a proven business team.
Be preparing to raise $1 million or more in investment within the next year.
Demonstrate measurable impact, particularly how past funding has contributed to business and health outcomes.
Align with ethical health standards and follow local and international regulations.
Use data and metrics to track both financial and health impact performance.
Conduct 100% of operations within Africa.

Application Deadline

All applications must be submitted by 30 April 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.

How to Apply

To apply for the Health Equity for Africa Programme 2025:

Visit the official Villgro Africa application portal.
Carefully review the eligibility and application instructions.
Complete the application form with accurate and compelling details.
Submit your application before the deadline.

For more info, visit the Villgro Africa programme page.

Ensure all supporting documents are ready and clearly demonstrate your business impact, team capacity, and growth potential.

Conclusion

Africa faces significant healthcare challenges, but innovative businesses are rising to meet these needs. By joining the Health Equity for Africa Programme, you become part of a network committed to scaling access to quality healthcare and building resilient health systems on the continent.

This is more than just a funding opportunity it's a platform for collaboration, growth, and long-term impact.