Kigali, Rwanda, 15 May 2025 – DEG Impulse GmbH, in partnership with VC4A and Impact Hub Kigali, proudly announces the launch of the third develoPPP Ventures cohort in Rwanda. The programme supports high-impact, scalable startups in advancing sustainable economic, social, and environmental development. The funding is provided by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Following the success of the first two cohorts, the 3rd cohort will again provide selected startups with EUR 100,000 in non-dilutive co-financing and tailored technical assistance to strengthen operations and investment readiness. Companies that meet the following criteria are eligible to apply to the programme: Proven proof of concept and viable business model; At least one annual financial statement; Not more than €2M in prior funding; Registered in Rwanda (or plans to be soon); Ability to secure match-funding; High growth potential with break-even within 3 years. Women-led and gender-equality-focused businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Voices of Impact Julia Stausberg-Umuerri, Head of develoPPP Ventures at DEG Impulse, shared her excitement: “We are delighted to launch a new develoPPP Ventures cohort and advance the programme’s goal of building a strong pipeline of high-impact startups while catalysing additional private sector investment in the region. “Rwandan startups are proving they can scale impactful businesses with the right backing. develoPPP Ventures is designed to identify and support those with the highest potential, offering a platform that attracts both ambitious founders and committed investors looking to drive real growth, said Alejandro Jiménez, Managing Director of Impact Hub Kigali. Cohort 1 Alumni, Yvette Ishimwe, CEO and founder of Iriba Water Group, reflected : “I think the intentionality in offering technical assistance really stood out for me. It saved me time, allowed me to have that task completed while running my business, and gave me the opportunity to learn how to do it. That’s something quite unique.” Apply Now Applications are open via develoPPP Ventures platform, or the VC4A platform. Deadline: June 30, 2025. Startups based in Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana or South Africa can apply via their national calls. For details and FAQs, visit develoPPP Ventures website. For more information contact Gloria Mutoni - gloria.mutoni@impacthub.net Media Contact: programs.kigali@impacthub.net , Impact Hub Kigali About DEG Impulse – A 100% non-profit subsidiary of the German development finance institution DEG, promoting the sustainable transformation of private-sector companies aligned with the SDGs. VC4A – A global startup ecosystem builder supporting thousands of ventures across emerging markets. Learn more at VC4A.com or latam.vc4a.com. Impact Hub Kigali – A leading innovation hub enabling Rwandan entrepreneurs to build impactful, sustainable businesses. Visit kigali.impacthub.net for more information.
