Equity Investments

Program objective

The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) partners with the private sector to finance solutions to the most critical challenges facing the developing world today. DFC invests across sectors including energy, healthcare, critical infrastructure, food security, and small business support. DFC investments adhere to high standards and respect the environment, human rights, and worker rights. DFC seeks to support early and growth-stage companies and projects that are otherwise not able to take on debt, especially companies in low and lower-middle income countries.

As published in the SAM.gov Assistance Listing.

No open or forecasted opportunities are currently posted under this listing. Programs often post notices on an annual cycle — see recently closed opportunities below for timing.

Eligible applicants (program level)

• ✓Non-domestic (non-US) Entity
• ✓Non-Government - General

DFC supports investment in more than 100 countries around the world and prioritizes investment in low- and lower-middle-income countries, as defined by the World Bank. DFC may consider projects in certain upper-middle-income countries that address key agency priorities or serve underserved communities. Investors must be willing and able to make sufficient financial investment to the project to support its long-term viability. Projects DFC supports must demonstrate the competence of the management team and financial records in the same or a closely related business that show a recent record of success. All DFC projects are required to be conducted with respect for the environment, worker rights, human rights, and local communities, while also encouraging a positive host country impact. Evaluation of prospective applicants considers the following criteria: Real revenue and demonstrated product market fit; High growth with strong business model fundamentals; Large commercial market with potential for scale; Growth-stage companies with plausible exit routes; Experienced management team; Investments with like-minded DFIs, strategic investors, and/or private equity or venture capital firms; Sound legal structures and appropriate governance. See <https://www.dfc.gov/what-we-offer/our-products/equity-investments>. Other underwriting policies apply. Subject to negotiated terms and conditions. See <https://www.dfc.gov/apply>.

Program-level eligibility from SAM.gov. Each funding notice sets its own requirements.

Frequently asked questions