The African Diaspora Network (ADN), in collaboration with Myriad USA, has launched the African Diaspora Innovation Fund (AfDIF) a bold new initiative designed to uplift African and African-descendant changemakers through financial support and community engagement.
The announcement was made at the 10th anniversary celebration of the African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS25), hosted at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. The launch marks a strategic milestone in ADN’s efforts to deepen the global diaspora’s investment in Africa’s development.
Africa, while rich in talent, culture, and natural resources, continues to battle systemic barriers such as limited access to startup capital, infrastructure gaps, and high rates of youth unemployment. The AfDIF was created in response to these challenges, offering targeted support to entrepreneurs working on solutions that drive sustainable social and economic progress across the continent.
Each year, AfDIF will provide up to $25,000 in grant funding to as many as 12 high-impact ventures led by African or African-descendant social entrepreneurs. These grants are not just financial boosts,they are confidence signals meant to unlock new opportunities, attract further investment, and connect entrepreneurs to global networks of support.
What makes AfDIF especially unique is its donor-driven model. Anyone can contribute to the fund, but donors who give $500 or more will be invited to take part in a voting process to help determine the final grant recipients. This participatory structure gives donors a direct hand in shaping Africa’s future while enhancing transparency and community ownership.
“Africa’s entrepreneurs are its boldest changemakers and innovators. That’s why I am proud to back them through the African Diaspora Innovation Fund,” said Romi Bhatia, Venture Partner at Jedar Capital. “It’s a wonderful new initiative by ADN to empower the African diaspora and friends of Africa like me, to channel their resources to achieve the social impact we all seek.”
The launch of AfDIF signals a shift toward more inclusive and responsive funding models that connect grassroots innovation with diaspora goodwill. It is not just about giving money, it’s about fostering connection, enabling agency, and amplifying the voices of those working on the frontlines of Africa’s transformation.
For ADN, the fund is a continuation of its mission to mobilize the global African diaspora for impact. Over the past decade, the Network has championed African-led solutions and bridged partnerships between African communities and global allies. With AfDIF, ADN is inviting the world to take the next step, investing not just in ideas, but in the people behind them.
Entrepreneurs who are building scalable, socially impactful ventures in sectors such as health, education, clean energy, agriculture, and technology are encouraged to apply. Meanwhile, donors especially those from the diaspora and African allies are invited to be part of the movement, not just as funders but as partners in change.
As Africa continues to evolve, initiatives like AfDIF offer a glimpse of what is possible when collective resources, global networks, and local vision align.
