Opportunities

AGUKA Youth Fund

Unlock Your Entrepreneurial
Potential

The Government of Rwanda launches an affordable financing programme to empower young entrepreneurs and artists with access to loans, mentorship, and support to start or scale their businesses.
“YouthConnekt took my initial concept and turned it into a successful business, which has grown to employ 15 individuals in my community, fostering economic growth and providing valuable opportunities for local residents.”

Ministry of Youth and Arts

“YouthConnekt took my initial concept and turned it into a successful business, which has grown to employ 15 individuals in my community, fostering economic growth and providing valuable opportunities for local residents.”

EU Note

“YouthConnekt took my initial concept and turned it into a successful business, which has grown to employ 15 individuals in my community, fostering economic growth and providing valuable opportunities for local residents.”

UNDP Note

What is AGUKA?

AGUKA Youth Fund is a financial support programme designed by the Government of Rwanda through the Ministry of Youth and Arts in collaboration with the European Union, UNDP, UNFPA, and implemented in partnership with the Business Development Fund (BRD).

It provides affordable loans, credit guarantees, and micro-financing solutions to youth-led businesses and creative enterprises, enabling them to start, grow, and create sustainable jobs.
Initial Fund
RWF 0 B
Jobs Created
0 K+
Income Generated
RWF 0 B
Return on Investment
0 X
Projects Annually
0
Target Age Group
18

Key Features & Benefits

Affordable Loans

Competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms designed for young entrepreneurs

Credit Guarantee

Reduces barriers to finance by guaranteeing up to 90% of loan, lowering collateral requirements

E-Money & Microfinance

Access to digital financial services and smaller loan products for early-stage entrepreneurs

Business Mentorship

Structured aftercare and continuous mentorship proven to significantly improve business sustainability

Advisory Services

Integrated follow-up, market support, and business development guidance

Business Competitions

Opportunity to showcase business and win additional funding and recognition

Equipment Leasing

Access machinery, vehicles, and ICT equipment without large upfront capital investment

Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

Age

18–30 years old

Residency

Rwandan youth and registered artists

Business Status

Have a viable, registered or pre-registered business idea

Sector

Any sector (services, industry, agriculture, creative arts, etc.)

Special Priority

Women entrepreneurs, refugees, persons with disabilities, vulnerable youth

Financial Readiness

Basic business literacy and willingness to receive mentorship

How to Apply

1

Phase 01

Prepare a strong business proposal outlining your business idea, market analysis, financial projections, and personal background.

2

Phase 02

Register online via the official AGUKA portal (moya.gov.rw/aguka) or submit at nearest Youth Centre.

3

Phase 03

Submit required documents: ID, business plan, financial statements (if existing), references.

4

Phase 04

Attend orientation and business training workshop.

5

Phase 05

Access credit guarantee facility (up to 90% coverage) and mentorship support from AGUKA partners.

Evidence of Impact (2022–2025)

Based on AGUKA Tracer Study (1,903 beneficiaries surveyed)

128,485

Jobs Created

(30,162 decent jobs)

RWF 34.04B

Total Business Income

RWF 9.92B

Net Profits

RWF 2.25B

Tax Contribution

RWF 1M → RWF 54.2M

Value for Money

income; 48 decent jobs

90%

Community Spillovers

reported positive community effects