The African Diaspora Network (ADN), in partnership with Myriad USA, has launched the African Diaspora Innovation Fund (AfDIF), a new funding initiative aimed at supporting impactful entrepreneurs across the African continent and the global African diaspora.
The announcement was made during the 10th anniversary of the African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS25), held at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
Despite Africa’s vast natural resources and entrepreneurial spirit, persistent barriers such as limited access to funding, high youth unemployment, and underinvestment in essential sectors continue to hinder inclusive development. AfDIF aims to address some of these gaps by providing targeted financial support to innovators tackling pressing social issues.
Supporting Changemakers Across Key Sectors
AfDIF plans to award grants of up to $25,000 annually to a select group of up to twelve social entrepreneurs. Recipients will be chosen from a curated pool of high-potential candidates working in sectors such as:
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Education
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Healthcare
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Youth empowerment
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Climate resilience
The initiative is designed to amplify the work of individuals and organizations making tangible impacts in their communities, with a focus on sustainable, scalable solutions.
A Donor-Driven, Transparent Selection Model
To ensure transparency and broad community involvement, AfDIF welcomes donations of all sizes, with a unique opportunity for donors contributing $500 or more to participate in a voting process that helps select the final grant recipients.
This participatory model empowers donors and supporters of Africa’s development to have a direct say in shaping the continent’s entrepreneurial landscape.
“Africa’s entrepreneurs are its boldest changemakers and innovators,” said Romi Bhatia, Venture Partner at Jedar Capital. “That’s why I am proud to back them through the African Diaspora Innovation Fund. It’s a thoughtful initiative by ADN that gives the global diaspora—and allies of Africa like myself—a platform to drive meaningful impact.”
Toward Inclusive Growth and Global Partnership
The launch of AfDIF marks a strategic move to leverage the power and resources of the African diaspora and international allies to foster grassroots innovation. By aligning philanthropic giving with measurable impact, the fund aims to create a ripple effect across underserved communities and critical development sectors.
AfDIF positions itself not only as a grant-making platform but as a bridge connecting global supporters with Africa’s next generation of problem-solvers.
