Programme FCI4Africa 2026 – Horizon Europe

FCI4Africa OC#1 provides €50,000 per project in 100 % lump-sum funding to single research and technology entities for 12-month projects that test, validate or develop tools and business concepts improving fair, sustainable agri-food systems and trade in Africa.

What it offers

• Up to €50,000 per project as a 100 % lump-sum grant.
• Total budget €400,000 for up to 8 projects.
• Payments split across three phases: Design 30 %, Development 50 %, Validation 20 %.

Who can apply

• Single applicants only; consortia are not allowed.
• Must be research and technology stakeholders (e.g. SMEs, start-ups, research organisations) established in Horizon Europe eligible countries.
• Activities must be implemented in Africa and target local food systems.
• One proposal per applicant.

What you'll do

• Test, validate, enhance or develop business concepts, tools or datasets aligned with FCI4Africa objectives.
• Generate data and demonstrate innovation in real-life, multi-actor environments.
• Focus on challenges such as sustainability and fairness in agri-food systems, compliance with EU regulations, certification barriers, trade fragmentation, data transparency, and non-tariff measures inconsistencies.

How to apply

• Follow the guidelines and submit via the application link on the programme website.
• Closes 30/06/2026.

Good to know

• Projects must last 12 months.
• Supported sectors include agri-food systems, food trade, sustainability, food safety, digital tools, non-tariff measures, and African food value chains.