A Message from Growth 4 Zambia Founder, Gerry Griffin, to 2025 Grant Applicants

Welcome to the 2025 Growth 4 Zambia Grant Application process. As you take the time to go through our (hopefully short and straightforward) application process, we are delighted to share a few insights that might guide your journey.

Reflecting on 2024, we had the privilege of supporting some truly remarkable businesses that are making a significant impact. We’re excited to build on that momentum in 2025 and help even more Zambian businesses reach new heights.

What Growth 4 Zambia Is Looking For

We want to support businesses that can make a meaningful and measurable impact within Zambia. Here are the key areas we are particularly focused on:

1. Local Supply Chains
Businesses that source raw materials, products, or services locally score well with us. Supporting the local supply chain creates a ‘trickle-down’ effect, benefiting other Zambian businesses and communities.

2. Export Potential
While immediate export capability is not a requirement, we are looking for businesses with the potential to export within 18-24 months. International trade brings money into Zambia and drives economic growth.

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3. Strategic Sectors

Growth 4 Zambia prioritizes businesses in agriculture, food production, and tourism. These sectors are strategic assets for Zambia and align with the country’s strengths.

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4. Job Creation
We value businesses that have the potential to create significant employment. For example, startups in hospitality often employ 15-20 people, whereas tech startups may employ only 1-2. Businesses with a strong potential for job creation will score highly.

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5. Environmental Awareness
We aim to sponsor businesses that contribute positively to the environment or, at a minimum, maintain a net-neutral impact. This includes projects that demonstrate sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, conserving resources, or supporting renewable energy initiatives.

What May Not Score Well
If your business does not align with the priorities above, you may face challenges in securing a grant. Specific areas of concern include:

• Reliance on imported raw materials or supply chains, particularly from countries like China.

• Limited potential for job creation or scalability.

• Lack of export potential or a focus outside of strategic sectors.

 
Inspiration from Past Successes

In 2024, we supported Icon Zambia, a business that stood out for its massive employment potential and cultural impact. It involved hundreds of employees while inspiring and entertaining thousands of young Zambians. By showcasing Zambia’s best cultural and creative  elements, Icon Zambia exemplified the kind of meaningful impact we value.  The show is planning a successful and even larger return later this year.

Final Thoughts

If your business has the potential to empower local supply chains, generate exports, create jobs, or make an impact in agriculture, food, or tourism, we encourage you to apply. Even if your business falls outside these areas, show us how it can drive meaningful change, and we’ll consider it carefully.
 
Thank you for being part of Zambia’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem. We can’t wait to see the inspiring ideas and businesses 2025 has to offer.
 
Apply today and take the next step towards elevating your business growth!

— Gerry Griffin, Founder of Growth 4 Zambia