Sustainable Youth Agripreneurship Programme 2025: Empowering Youth for Green Agribusiness Growth

The Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, is inviting applications for its newly launched Sustainable Youth Agripreneurship Programme. This initiative is designed to empower young agripreneurs to establish and scale up environmentally conscious and socially impactful agribusinesses across select counties in Kenya.

This pilot initiative will deploy a tailored Sustainable Agripreneurship Training Curriculum, developed with technical support from FAO. The programme aims to equip youth with the practical knowledge, mentorship, financing access, and market linkages necessary to transform their small-scale agricultural ventures into thriving, sustainable businesses.

Who Can Apply?

The programme targets youth aged 18–35 years who are currently running active agribusinesses in the following Kenyan counties:

• Kajiado

• Meru

• Taita Taveta

• Kakamega

• Nyandarua

• Trans Nzoia

To be eligible, your agribusiness must operate within one or more of the following value chains:

• Dairy

• Livestock

• Beekeeping

• Horticulture

• Edible Oils

Both male and female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. Inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and innovation will be key guiding principles throughout the selection process.

What’s in It for You?

Selected applicants will receive access to a holistic package of agribusiness development support including:

1. Comprehensive Agripreneurship Training

Participants will engage in a detailed training program based on the Sustainable Agripreneurship Curriculum. This curriculum focuses on strengthening business management skills, environmental sustainability practices, value chain analysis, financial literacy, and resilience against climate shocks.

2. Expert Mentorship

Each agripreneur will be matched with experienced mentors in the agriculture and business sectors. Mentors will provide personalized guidance, helping participants apply best practices, solve practical business challenges, and improve productivity.

3. Access to Tailored Agribusiness Financing

Participants will be supported in designing feasible agribusiness plans eligible for financing under YEDF and other strategic partners. This tailored financial support aims to address key bottlenecks to agribusiness growth including access to inputs, equipment, and working capital.

4. Local and International Market Linkages

Graduates of the programme will be introduced to platforms and partners that support access to new markets for their agricultural products. The programme will facilitate exposure to both local value chain actors and global agribusiness networks, positioning youth-led enterprises for growth and cross-border trade.

Application Process

Applications are now open through the official Sustainable Youth Agripreneurship Programme Application Form. Interested candidates should ensure they:

• Are aged 18–35

• Run a functioning agribusiness in one of the six target counties

• Operate in at least one of the targeted value chains

• Have a genuine interest in sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented agribusiness

This opportunity is completely free of charge, and applicants are encouraged to submit truthful and complete information. The data submitted will be used solely for programme planning and selection purposes.

Please note:

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

• The programme is competitive, and early application is encouraged.

• The selection process will prioritize commitment to sustainability, scalability potential, and community impact.

Why It Matters

Agriculture remains a critical driver of economic growth in Kenya, especially among youth in rural and peri-urban areas. However, many young agripreneurs face challenges in accessing relevant training, affordable finance, and markets. This programme is a direct response to these challenges, aiming to unlock green agribusiness potential while contributing to food security, climate adaptation, and decent employment.

By joining the Sustainable Youth Agripreneurship Programme, you will become part of a movement that redefines agriculture as a smart, innovative, and impactful career path for the next generation.

Apply Now

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about growing a sustainable agribusiness, do not miss this opportunity.

Deadline: Applications are currently open. Apply as soon as possible to be considered for this unique opportunity.

To access the application form and learn more, visit the official Youth Enterprise Development Fund website or check announcements from FAO Kenya and YEDF channels.

For more opportunities, visit Opportunities for Youth.