What is the AECF Zimbabwe Window (ZW)?

The AECF Zimbabwe Window (ZW) is a special Fund of the AECF that is open to business ideas for Zimbabwe only.

Which ideas is the AECF ZW prepared to support?

AECF ZW will support business ideas in the fields of agri-business, rural financial services and the value chain, which extends from rural areas to their local and international markets. To qualify for funding your business idea should have a positive impact on the rural poor in Zimbabwe: delivering increased employment, reduced costs, and improved productivity.

How does the Challenge Fund work?

The AECF ZW is a competition, open only to for-profit companies. The ZW Fund will run competitions for Zimbabwe starting in December 2009. The AECF ZW will provide grants and zero interest rate repayable grants up to a maximum of US$1.5m for each project (the average grant/loan size is expected to be US$750,000).

Who funds the AECF and the AECF ZW? 

The Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP), the UK Department for International Development (DFID), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs (NMFA) are the major funders of the AECF. Australian Government Aid Program is the initial funder of the AECF ZW. Others may join in due course.

Who manages the AECF ZW?

The Fund Manager of the AECF ZW is KPMG Development Advisory Services, in association with Triple Line Consulting (TLC) and Acumen Africa Consulting. Y&R Brands handle the AECF ZW’s marketing and communications.

Where can I get more information on the AECF ZW?

You may contact Acumen Africa Consulting in Harare. However, note that this is a competition and so no unfair advantage will be given to any participant.