Deadline: 13-Oct-2025
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) invites proposals to improve support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya.
The aim of this study is to identify critical gaps that the British High Commission (BHC) can address to improve support for SMEs. The goal is to help SMEs reach their full economic potential and strengthen the SME landscape in Kenya. The study will guide the strategic direction of the next phase of the Kenya Catalytic Jobs Fund (KCJF) by combining 2 key approaches: analysing the Kenyan SME landscape to identify current gaps, challenges and opportunities for strengthening the ecosystem; drawing on international best practices, especially successful models from similar emerging markets, to identify elements that can be adapted and integrated into KCJF’s future interventions.
Since its launch in 2019, the Kenya Catalytic Jobs Fund (KCJF) has supported 19 local firms and contributed to the creation of 145,000 direct and indirect jobs across key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and the digital economy. Delivered through a challenge fund, KCJF selects and supports promising businesses with grants and technical assistance while unlocking additional private investment, with £4 million mobilised so far. The fund’s catalytic approach focuses on reducing risks for early-stage and underfunded firms, making them more attractive to private investors.
This call is open to organisations in all ODA-eligible countries, including NGOs, UK-based non-profit organisations, universities, humanitarian organisations, and LMIC-based entities. Applications must be backed by teams with strong expertise in SME development, market systems, private sector financing, research and evaluation, and policy analysis. Experience in ecosystem mapping, strategic studies, programme design, job creation, and working with financial institutions in Kenya or the region will be essential. Applicants should ensure integration of gender, youth, and disability inclusion across their outputs.
Value of funding: £10,001 to £100,000.
For more information, visit GOV.UK.