The United States African
Development Foundation

The United States African Development Foundation (USADF) is an independent U.S. Government agency established by Congress to support African-owned enterprises which improve lives in poor and vulnerable communities in Africa. Our foreign assistance in Africa is an investment in local economic development for peace and security today and prosperous U.S. trading partners tomorrow.

USADF invests directly in community enterprises, providing seed capital and local technical support to early stage agriculture, off-grid energy and youth-led enterprises in Africa. Last year, our grant assistance generated $100 million in new local economic activities in poor and vulnerable communities across Africa. With 20 USADF country programs, local African staff and partners provide oversight and technical expertise to grow and expand community enterprises which ensures security, stability and prosperity in conflict and post-conflict areas in Africa.

Please download a copy of our fact sheet here.

Boosting Food Security and Incomes

Investing in Africa's Youth

ince 2014, USADF has directly supported over 100 youth entrepreneurs in 30 countries, providing them with over $3 million of grant funding to launch and expand their businesses across Africa.

Ending Energy Poverty

Working on African solutions to accessing off-grid energy through innovative generation, distribution and household products.

Addressing Africa's Youth Unemployment Gap

USADF works to connect youth-led enterprises with seed capital, and unemployed youth with job skills

Working with People with Disabilities

USADF works with Africa's marginalized populations to create pathways to prosperity. In Benin, USADF is partnering with persons with disabilities to build "Community Gardens". These gardens are built with wider spaces for farmers with disabilities to navigate the rows.