Investment Readiness Services for DSIs in Data Governance Africa Initiative

The objective of this procurement is to engage a qualified service provider to deliver a comprehensive Investment Readiness Programme for 10 companies focused on Digital Social Innovation (DSI). The programme aims to enable these companies to attract investment from Europe and/or Africa and scale their operations effectively across the continent. HAUS Finnish Institute of Public Management Ltd, as the Contracting Authority, has developed the “Think Like an Investor” programme in collaboration with the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV). Commissioned by the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European Union, the programme is part of the European Union-African Union (EU-AU) Data Flagship (2022–2026), which fosters an inclusive, data-driven economy in Africa. This programme supports 10 African data-driven startups and SMEs delivering societal value through scalable DSIs. By promoting African-European partnerships and facilitating investment opportunities, the programme drives data-driven innovation, inclusive growth, and sustainable social and economic development in the region. DSIs leverage technology to address critical challenges such as poverty, inequality, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, providing scalable, impactful solutions that empower communities and contribute to sustainable development, particularly in underserved regions. The selected service provider will design, implement, and report on the Investment Readiness Programme, offering tailored support to help DSIs secure investments and achieve sustainable growth. Key services include developing a results-oriented curriculum, providing customized coaching and mentoring, facilitating investor matchmaking and networking, conducting progress monitoring, and delivering a comprehensive final report on activities and outcomes. The programme is tentatively scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2025, incorporating on-site check-up sessions aligned with existing events to optimize resources. Training sessions, conducted online or in small groups, will be tailored to participants' needs and include one-on-one mentoring. The key objectives of the programme are to deliver investment readiness services tailored to 10 DSI companies located in South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia, Namibia, and Senegal. It also aims to provide comprehensive training and mentorship to enhance their ability to secure investments. Additionally, the programme seeks to facilitate the scaling of these companies across Africa and establish strategic partnerships with investors from both Europe and Africa. The contract period will commence upon signing and remain in effect until all obligations have been fulfilled. Tenderers will not receive any compensation for preparing, presenting, or participating in the tender process. Tender documents are available in English, and all offers must also be submitted in English. Translation of tender documents into other languages is the responsibility and cost of the tenderer. The Contracting Authority will award the contract to one (1) supplier as a result of this procurement.