ABSTRACT
This chapter provides insights from the experiences of agriculture and food entrepreneurs who have been able to overcome these hurdles and raise significant funds for scaling their companies, leveraging innovative approaches to generating funding internally and externally. It describes insights for determining the most appropriate financial instruments and tools for one's business, hinged on one's business model and life cycle. The chapter offers practical steps to ensure investment readiness and financial exits. In addition, engage in active negotiations to ensure that people obtain the best terms for the investment, and manage expectations to ensure cordial relationships with the investors during and beyond the investment period. Investors operating on the African continent include private and corporate foundations, operating and grant-making foundations, and diplomatic offices and development agencies. It is essential to recognize that while the availability of grants is vital for entrepreneurs looking to scale, there are a few critical drawbacks.
