O-Farms is an African business accelerator that helps agribusiness SMEs build and scale circular food production ventures. The initiative supports innovators turning food losses and by-products into value-added products and services — creating economic opportunities while improving sustainability in East Africa. It is backed by IKEA Foundation, Bopinc, Village Capital, and partners.
Traditional food systems in East Africa generate significant waste and inefficiencies. O-Farms aims to shift production toward circular methods that reuse waste streams and by-products to create new economic value — from animal feed and organic fertilizers to bioenergy and biodegradable packaging. This approach supports sustainable agriculture, rural livelihoods, and innovation-led growth.
The programme has already supported dozens of companies working on circular food system solutions, helping them strengthen business models and integrate circular principles into operations.
Key Benefits for Participating SMEs
Participants selected for the O-Farms accelerator typically receive:
📘 Customised Training & Technical Assistance
Tailored coaching on agri-circular business models, circular product development, and systems strengthening.
🧠 Mentorship & Coaching
Group and one-on-one mentorship to help founders convert training into real-world business implementation.
💼 Investment & Finance Links
Support in accessing financing and revenue-based investment options specifically designed for circular agribusiness.
🤝 Networking & Peer Learning
Opportunities to connect with investors, industry stakeholders, and other entrepreneurs driving agribusiness innovation.
💶 Milestone Budgets & Grants
Many accelerator cohorts include budget support (e.g., ~€6,800 per enterprise) or competitive peer-awarded seed grants, depending on the cycle and partner structure.
Who Should Apply (Target Participants)
O-Farms seeks small and growing agri-businesses that:
✔ Are based in Kenya or Uganda (often with local registration and founders)
✔ Innovate with circular uses of food losses or by-products (e.g., animal feed, bioenergy, biodegradable packaging, fertilizers)
✔ Have a business model with real customers or revenue and plans to scale circular solutions
✔ Aim to create impact and jobs while improving agricultural sustainability
Examples include converting food waste into food ingredients, animal feed, bioenergy, or compost.
Application Details & Timeline
O-Farms runs multiple cycles of acceleration. The latest public information indicates a call for applications typically opens in early 2026 for the 2026/2027 cohort. Selected enterprises receive long-term support with tailored workplans, mentorship, and connection to finance.
