The Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development (SLeCAD) successfully convened a high-level agribusiness private sector engagement with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), Vista Bank Sierra Leone, and support from the European Union, aimed at enhancing access to finance for agribusinesses across Sierra Leone.
Held on 25th March, 2026 at the SLeCAD Conference Hall, Lumley Beach Road, Freetown, the meeting brought together key stakeholders including agribusiness companies, SMEs, farmer-based organizations, cooperatives, and private sector actors to deepen understanding of the Matching Grant Financing Facility under the Government’s flagship Feed Salone initiative.
Driving Access to Finance for Agribusiness Growth
The engagement was convened in response to growing demand from SLeCAD members and agribusiness stakeholders seeking clarity on how to access financing opportunities. Over time, the Chamber has received numerous inquiries regarding eligibility, procedures, and requirements for funding support. This meeting therefore served as a critical platform to bridge the information gap and connect private sector actors directly with financing institutions.
In his remarks, the leadership of SLeCAD emphasized the Chamber’s commitment to advocating for its members by facilitating strategic partnerships and ensuring that agribusinesses are well-positioned to benefit from available financing windows.
Overview of the Matching Grant Financing Facility
Madam Jerioth
UNCDF Representative
During the session, representatives from UNCDF and Vista Bank provided detailed insights into the structure and requirements of the financing facility. The scheme is designed to support agribusiness value chain actors through a blended financing model, which includes:
A grant component of up to 50% of the total financing package
A loan component of up to 50%, provided by Vista Bank under agreed terms
Access to funding of up to USD $120,000 equivalent in Leones, depending on the scale and viability of the agribusiness
Participants were guided through key eligibility criteria, including:
Business registration within the agricultural sector or related value chains
Demonstrated operational track record and performance
Availability of a clear business plan with projected cash flows
Compliance with financial and collateral requirements
Key Discussions and Stakeholder Engagement
The session featured interactive discussions, allowing participants to raise concerns and seek clarification on critical issues such as:
Access to finance barriers for SMEs and smallholder farmers
Loan conditions, interest rates, and collateral requirements
Business formalization and readiness for investment
Strengthening agribusiness value chains through targeted financing
Stakeholders also highlighted persistent challenges including limited access to affordable finance, market constraints, and gaps in technical capacity, reinforcing the need for continuous engagement between financial institutions and the private sector.
Strengthening Public-Private Collaboration
The engagement reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between development partners, financial institutions, and the private sector in advancing Sierra Leone’s agricultural transformation agenda. With support from the European Union and UNCDF, initiatives such as this are contributing to building a more inclusive and resilient agribusiness ecosystem.
SLeCAD reiterated its role as a key intermediary, ensuring that its members are not only informed but also supported in navigating financing processes and meeting eligibility requirements.
Call to Action for Agribusiness Stakeholders
SLeCAD encourages all agribusinesses, SMEs, cooperatives, and value chain actors to take proactive steps in preparing their businesses to access such opportunities. This includes strengthening business structures, improving financial records, and developing bankable proposals.
The Chamber remains committed to providing continuous support, advisory services, and platforms for engagement to ensure that no member is left behind.
Conclusion
This engagement marks another important milestone in SLeCAD’s efforts to unlock financing opportunities for agribusiness development in Sierra Leone. By connecting stakeholders with the right institutions and information, the Chamber continues to play a pivotal role in driving private sector growth, job creation, and food systems transformation.
For More Information
Visit: https://slecad.biz/
Email: info@slecad.biz
