The application deadline for the 2026/2027 TradeRoots Africa-ICC Programme is 15 October 2026. Applications are now open. Launched by the ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship at the 2025 B20 Summit in South Africa, the TradeRoots Africa Ecosystem helps SMEs strengthen their export readiness under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Regional Economic Communities (RECs). By turning continental and regional trade policies into practical opportunities, TradeRoots Africa empowers African businesses to compete regionally and globally.
Programme Overview
• Programme name: 2026/2027 TradeRoots Africa-ICC Programme
• Application deadline: 15 October 2026
• Applications are now open
• Launched by: ICC Centre of Entrepreneurship at the 2025 B20 Summit in South Africa
• Objective: Help African SMEs become export-ready and access opportunities under the AfCFTA and Regional Economic Communities
• Collaboration: Delivered with ICC national committees and African chambers
• Framework: A sequenced, practical SME support system built around six pillars
SME Support Framework: Six Pillars
• Business development
• Trade knowledge and market access
• Trade finance
• Logistics, customs and air transport
• Digital trade tools
• Mentorship
Who Should Apply?
TradeRoots Africa is designed for African-owned SMEs that:
• Have been operating for at least 24 months
• Have a minimum annual turnover of USD 5,000, with no stated upper limit; more established businesses are also encouraged to apply
• Have a product or service with potential for African or international markets
• Are majority African-owned
• Are based in one of the programme's priority countries: Botswana, Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tunisia, or Uganda
• Are interested in expanding across African markets
• Are ready to invest time in strengthening their export readiness
• Are willing to participate in programme activities, complete practical assignments, and take action to address identified business gaps
Additional Eligibility Requirements
• Applicants must be registered and legally operating businesses
• Businesses must already have a product or service that is ready to export, rather than only a business idea
• Applicants should demonstrate digital trade readiness through an active e-commerce platform, online marketplace, social-commerce channel, or another scalable digital presence
• A business owner or senior manager must personally participate in the programme
Target Businesses
The programme seeks a balanced cohort of emerging SMEs, growth-stage businesses, and established SMEs with strong potential to scale across African markets. There is no upper turnover threshold stated, meaning established businesses that meet the other eligibility requirements are also encouraged to participate.
More Information
Visit the official webpage of the TradeRoots Africa-ICC Programme for full application requirements and submission instructions.
The TradeRoots Africa-ICC Programme provides African SMEs with a structured pathway to strengthen export readiness, improve market access, and take advantage of regional trade opportunities. Eligible businesses in the programme's priority countries are encouraged to apply before the 15 October 2026 deadline.