Fuzé by Digital Africa is unlocking opportunities for early-stage African startups by offering pre-seed funding ranging from €20,000 to €100,000. Whether you’re in the ideation phase or already gaining traction, this innovative funding initiative could be your next big break. Applications are now open in select countries including Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Zambia.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to apply, what Fuzé offers, eligibility criteria, and expert tips to make your application stand out.
What Is Fuzé by Digital Africa?
Fuzé by Digital Africa is a funding program backed by the French government and administered by Digital Africa, aimed at supporting Africa’s next generation of digital innovators. Designed for early-stage startups, Fuzé offers equity investments—not grants—along with mentorship, community support, and access to a vibrant ecosystem.
The program is part of Digital Africa’s mission to strengthen African entrepreneurship and promote inclusive innovation across the continent.
Funding Amounts Offered
Fuzé provides tiered investment tickets depending on your startup’s maturity level:
- €20,000 – For startups in the ideation or early MVP phase.
- €30,000 – For startups advancing to product-market validation.
- €50,000–€100,000 – For startups showing traction or co-investment interest.
These are equity-based investments, making Fuzé one of the few pre-seed initiatives on the continent offering patient, risk-tolerant capital at the idea stage.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for Fuzé, your startup must:
- Be registered in an African country.
- Have at least one founder who is an African citizen.
- Offer a technology-driven solution.
- Operate in sectors such as:
- Fintech
- Healthtech
- Agri/foodtech
- Edtech
- Mobility & logistics
- Energy & climate solutions
Current & Upcoming Editions (2025)
Fuzé operates country-specific calls for applications:
🇹🇿 Tanzania Edition (Now Open!)
- Deadline: June 18, 2025
- Apply here: https://vc4a.com/digital-africa/fuze-tanzania/
- For startups registered and operating in Tanzania with an active tech solution.
🇿🇼 Zimbabwe Edition
- Recently launched; pitching sessions underway.
🇲🇿 Mozambique & 🇿🇲 Zambia Editions
- Past editions completed, with high participation. New rounds may be announced.
We recommend regularly checking Digital Africa or grantsdatabase.org for upcoming country calls.
📝 How to Apply for Fuzé by Digital Africa
- Visit the official call page for your country (e.g., Fuzé Tanzania).
- Review eligibility and funding structure.
- Prepare your pitch deck, business model, and traction metrics.
- Submit through the VC4A portal linked above.
- Attend any local info sessions or pitching events.
🔧 Need help refining your application? Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
🧠 Expert Opinion from GrantsDatabase.org
According to the funding strategy experts at GrantsDatabase.org:
“Fuzé applications are highly competitive but deeply rewarding. To stand out, startups should clearly define their value proposition and align it with local market needs. Prioritize a well-structured pitch deck, show early traction—even if small—and articulate how Fuzé’s investment will de-risk your next stage of growth. Reviewers are looking for both vision and feasibility.”
Additionally, submitting a locally grounded but globally scalable solution will resonate with Digital Africa’s Pan-African vision.
Why Apply for Fuzé?
- Early-stage capital when few investors are willing to take the risk.
- Non-dilutive mentoring and networking opportunities.
- Access to a Pan-African community of like-minded entrepreneurs and funders.
- Backing from a reputable institution with long-term commitment to Africa.
Final Thoughts
If you’re an African tech entrepreneur looking for capital to turn your idea into a scalable business, Fuzé by Digital Africa is an exceptional opportunity. With applications now open in countries like Tanzania and Zimbabwe, this could be your launchpad into Africa’s fast-growing tech ecosystem.
Don’t wait—apply to Fuzé by Digital Africa and take your startup to the next level.
Need support with your application? Contact grantsdatabase.org for expert help in proposal drafting, refining, and review.
