Do you have a business idea that could turn Somali products into world-class exports? The Africa Jobs Fund (AJF) and the Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank (SDRB) have launched the Somalia Business Plan Competition 2026. The winner gets $20,000, and strong projects may be considered for up to $100,000 in pilot investment and a path to $1 million to scale. Applications close on November 6, 2026.
Who this is for: founders with a connection to Somalia, including the Somali diaspora anywhere in the world. You do not need to live in Somalia, but your business must be connected to Somalia and its regions.
About the Competition
Somalia already exports livestock, fish, sesame, hides and frankincense. However, much of it leaves the country with little or no processing, branding or added value. The competition aims to change that by backing new businesses that process Somali resources, meet international standards and connect local producers to global buyers.
The goal is not just to hand out a prize. Instead, AJF and SDRB want to build a pathway from a strong idea to a real export business operating at scale, creating better jobs and higher incomes.
Prize and Investment Pathway
- Step 1, win the competition: $20,000 for the winner to get the business started
- Step 2, pilot: up to $100,000. All strong projects, not just the winner, may be considered for investment to prove the business works.
- Step 3, scale: up to $1,000,000. A potential pathway to scale-up investment for a successful pilot.
Please note: the pilot and scale-up funding are investment opportunities, not guaranteed grants. They depend on further review and results.
Business Areas of Interest
- Agriculture and agro-processing: sesame, honey, bananas and other crops
- Livestock and meat processing: abattoirs, cold chain, packaging and halal-certified products
- Fisheries: cold storage, processing, canning and refrigerated logistics
- Natural products: frankincense, myrrh, gum arabic and camel milk
- Light manufacturing and consumer products for regional and global buyers
- Export services: testing, certification, packaging, logistics and quality assurance
- Any other productive business with a credible path to exports and jobs
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
You must meet both of these conditions:
- Have a connection to Somalia
- Be ready to work full-time on building the venture
All regions of Somalia are eligible. You can apply with a running company, an early-stage venture or a well-researched idea. Prior traction is not required.
The judges look for founders who have spotted a credible export opportunity, show good judgement and drive, understand the key risks of their plan, and can explain how the business will create jobs and economic value. They want people who will run the business, not just advise it.
What You Need to Submit
- Applicant and team information
- A description of your connection to Somalia
- A concept note of no more than two pages (or a pitch deck instead, if you have one)
- CVs for all core founders or team members
- A one-minute introduction video
A detailed financial model is not required.
Key Dates
- October 5, 2026: Applications opened
- October 9, 2026: Interviews started
- November 6, 2026: Application deadline
Interviews are already underway, so applying early can help. All stages take place online unless you are told otherwise.
Judging Panel
- Hodan Osman: President and Board Chair, Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank
- Abukar Dahir: Co-founder and CEO, Sini Capital Management, and co-founder of SoFresh Seafood
- Ben Hyman: Operating Partner, Africa Jobs Fund
How to Apply for the Somalia Business Plan Competition 2026
- Read the full details on the official AJF × SDRB competition page.
- Write your two-page concept note: the opportunity, the export market, your plan and the main risks.
- Gather CVs for your team and record a one-minute video introducing yourself and your idea.
- Complete the online application form on the official page before November 6, 2026.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Name a real export market and buyer type, for example Gulf supermarkets for camel milk.
- Show how you will add value in Somalia, through processing, packaging or certification.
- Be honest about risks. The judges want founders who understand their assumptions.
- Explain clearly how many jobs your business could create.
Key Details at a Glance
- Organisers: Africa Jobs Fund and Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank
- Prize: $20,000 for the winner
- Follow-on: Up to $100,000 pilot investment and a path to $1 million
- Who: Founders with a connection to Somalia, including the diaspora
- Focus: Export-oriented, productive businesses
- Deadline: November 6, 2026
