The programme aims to help locally led businesses improve their business models, advance product development and prepare to scale within healthcare markets. Eligible applicants must operate in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi or Ethiopia.

Applications close on November 16, 2026.

The initiative focuses on entrepreneurs developing medical technologies that can improve healthcare delivery and access. It seeks to help businesses progress beyond product development and establish sustainable ventures capable of serving patients and healthcare providers.

Villgro Africa supports healthcare innovators through business development assistance, mentorship and connections with relevant health-sector partners. Applicants are advised to review the current programme terms to establish the specific support available to the incoming cohort.

To qualify, applicants must be locally led companies developing technology-enabled medical devices or other invention-based healthcare products. Businesses must operate from, or be headquartered in, one of the six eligible countries and have founding teams with both technical and business leadership.

Applicants should also have a functional proof of concept or prototype, with the programme generally best suited to innovations at Technology Readiness Levels 4–8. Evidence of engagement with intended users, healthcare professionals, healthcare facilities or patients is required.

Businesses must clearly explain the health challenge their products address and the expected benefits. They must also disclose relevant intellectual property, product ownership and technical information for due diligence.

The programme is not primarily intended for businesses still at the idea stage, distributors without meaningful innovation, service-only ventures or companies focused on generic wellness and administrative software.

Eligible innovations include diagnostic and screening devices, patient-monitoring equipment, connected medical devices, surgical and therapeutic equipment, and critical-care technologies.

Villgro Africa is also seeking solutions for maternal, newborn and child health, as well as medical devices addressing infectious and non-communicable diseases. Assistive and rehabilitation technologies are eligible, alongside portable, energy-efficient medical devices designed for resource-constrained environments.

Software and artificial intelligence can form part of an innovation, but a physical medical device or hardware component must remain central to the solution.

The programme plans to select six enterprises for a tailored 24-month venture and technical assistance programme.

Selected businesses may receive guidance on product development and validation, including testing, design improvements and product performance. Support may also cover clinical and regulatory readiness, evidence requirements, regulatory pathways and quality management.

Additional assistance could help businesses prepare for manufacturing through production planning, supplier management and quality control. Market development support may address pricing, business models, distribution and partnerships, while investment readiness assistance may cover funding requirements, business milestones and investment materials.

However, participation does not guarantee a cash grant for every selected enterprise. Applicants should contact Villgro Africa directly to confirm whether funding is available for this cohort and the conditions attached.

Applicants are expected to prepare a completed online application form and a pitch deck of no more than 15 slides. They should also provide a product brief outlining the intended use, target users and current development stage, alongside available prototype testing results, user research or pilot evidence.

Other required information includes the product’s regulatory status, intellectual property and clinical requirements, as well as details of the business model, target market, pricing and partnerships.

Company registration documents and founder or shareholding information should be provided where available. Applicants should also prepare financial statements or management accounts, details of previous funding and expected capital requirements.

A short product demonstration video or link is recommended.

The application deadline is November 16, 2026. Prospective applicants should consult the application portal for the exact closing time and any updates.

To apply, interested businesses should visit the official Villgro Africa website at https://villgroafrica.org/, review the eligibility criteria, confirm that they operate in an eligible country and prepare the required pitch deck and supporting documents. They must then complete the online application and submit all required materials before the deadline.

The opportunity is intended for eligible medical technology companies across East Africa seeking to strengthen their products, businesses and readiness for healthcare markets.

SOURCE: Villgro Africa