Finding money for your idea or business is not just about filling out forms or pitching to investors. It’s also about standing out, getting noticed, and sharing your story the right way. If you’re reading this, you probably have a good idea or a growing business, but are not sure how to break into those global funding spaces. That’s okay; many people feel the same way.

In Part 1, I explained some of the top key platforms, where to find global funding opportunities, how to prepare a compelling pitch, and how to use tools to begin. You should check out the Part 1 blog post by clicking this link: Part 1 of How Entrepreneurs in Developing Countries Can Secure Global Funding. 

Now, let’s go further. We will discuss how your story and connections can help you get noticed. If you ever wondered why some people succeed while others don’t, this part will help you understand why and give you steps to take. 

Are you ready to start?

1. Join Local Impact Competitions to get noticed and funded.

If you have a good idea and want to start a business, entering competitions can help you get money and attention fast. These challenges are great for people in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and some parts of Europe. They can provide cash, help you get noticed, and even offer guidance.

Many of these competitions organised by governments, international organisations, NGOs, corporate foundations or universities do not require you to give up part of your business. They care about making a difference, not just making money.

For example, the Orange Social Venture Prize has helped companies like Prixair and Sayna get funding by doing great work in areas like climate and education.

Another example is MDaaS Global, a health company in Nigeria. They won a challenge and used the prize to grow their business and help more people.

And the best part? There’s almost always a new opportunity open somewhere. Examples include:

 2. Use Government and NGO Grants for Social Impact

If your startup focuses on health, education, climate, gender equity, or employment, you have many funding opportunities available to you.

Government agencies, international NGOs, and donor organisations want to support entrepreneurs whose work aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They are not investors seeking high profits; instead, they look for measurable impact. For example, they want to know if you are helping children learn better, giving farmers better access to markets, or reducing plastic waste in your city.

The GSMA Innovation Fund, supported by the UK government and mobile network operators, funds startups in Africa and Asia that use mobile technology for positive change. For instance, the Nigerian startup CarePay and Bangladesh’s Jachai have received funding and support to help them grow.

Here are some common sources of these grants:

  • USAID Development Innovation Ventures
  • UK Aid Direct
  • Global Innovation Fund
  • Echoing Green Fellowship
  • UNICEF Innovation Fund
  • African Development Bank’s Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank (YEIB)

Tips:

Government and NGO grants often ask for strong documentation. You will need:

  • A clear theory of change (how your idea will create impact)
  • A solid monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plan 
  • Previous data or pilot results, if you have them
  • Proof that your team can execute the plan

Even if you’re just starting, you can prepare your idea for these grants by:

  • Launching a pilot project in a small community
  • Gathering feedback, testimonials, and usage data
  • Collaborating with local NGOs or public schools as partners

3. Build Partnerships That Open Global Doors (Accelerators, Incubators & Local Hubs)

You don’t have to go global alone, and partnerships can help. Having the right connections can speed up your entry into global markets, introduce you to funders, and prepare you for rapid growth.

Start with Local Incubators and Hubs

Even if you live in a smaller town or a city without a tech scene, you can often find a local innovation hub, startup lab, or entrepreneurship program nearby. These places can help you refine your idea, connect you to mentors, and prepare you to seek funding, both locally and internationally. 

See some notable examples from Africa:

  • CcHub (Nigeria): They support startups like LifeBank and BudgIT and partner with international donors like the Dutch government and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
  • MEST Africa (Ghana): Offers funding, training, and access to a wide network of alumni and investors.
  • iHub (Kenya): Known for connecting local talent with global opportunities.

If you are confident in your business idea or have already seen some success, consider applying to global accelerator programs. These programs provide funding, mentorship, investor connections, and often a demo day where you pitch to top investors.

Here are some top programs that accept startups from developing countries:

  • Y Combinator (USA): Nigerian startups like Paystack and Cowrywise are alumni. The company offers $500,000 in funding and excellent mentorship.
  • Techstars: They also operate in Africa and Asia. Their Lagos edition started recently.
  • Antler Global: They invest in early-stage founders and run programs in Nairobi and Lagos.
  • Startupbootcamp AfriTech: Based in Cape Town, this accelerator has supported promising African startups in health, logistics, and fintech.

“If you don’t have traction yet, start small. You could join a 6-week local bootcamp, get advice, and then move up to global accelerators. That was our path,” says Samuel, co-founder of a Nigerian health startup now backed by Techstars.

Or 

Collaborate with Global NGOs or Universities

Don’t overlook the benefits of working with academic incubators and nonprofit organisations. Global universities and international NGOs often fund or co-develop solutions with African startups. Look for opportunities with:

  • MIT Solve Challenges
  • Ashoka Changemakers
  • Global Innovation Exchange

Even if these organisations don’t offer direct funding, they can provide global exposure, credibility, and access to new markets.

4. Use Your Story to Build a Strong Application Presence

Global funders don’t just invest in ideas, they invest in people. Your story, values, background, and motivation matter. The way you tell it can help an investor, donor, or judge connect with your mission.

What Makes a Good Story?

A great story answers these:

  • Why did you start this business?
  • What challenges have you overcome?
  • How is your solution changing lives in your community?
  • What’s your vision if you had more funding?

When Temie Giwa-Tubosun started LifeBank, her pitch wasn’t just about tech for blood delivery. She talked about Nigeria’s maternal health crisis and her personal motivation. That emotional and purpose-driven story helped her win grants, fellowships, and investors globally, including the MIT Solve challenge.

How to Tell It Well

  • Record a short founder video for your grant or crowdfunding page.
  • Write a simple but personal bio on your LinkedIn or website.
  • Use real pictures from your business (not stock images).
  • Keep your language clear, honest, and full of hope.

5. Don’t Just Apply, Follow Up and Stay Visible

One thing most entrepreneurs overlook: the power of follow-up. You may not hear back from a grant or accelerator immediately, but don’t disappear.

Here’s what to do instead:

After Applying:

  • Send a short email 2–3 weeks later, thanking them and asking about the next steps.
  • Share an update on your business progress. Let them see you’re still building
  • Tag funders, organisations, or partners when you share milestones online.
  • Send updates via newsletters or DMS (but don’t spam).
  • Attend their events or webinars. Be seen in their ecosystem.

Conclusion: 

Your Idea Deserves Global Attention

Let’s face it. Global Funding as an entrepreneur in a developing country takes guts, creativity, and persistence. But it’s no longer impossible. Whether you’re bootstrapping in Jos or scaling from Senegal, there’s space for your story, your startup, and your solution in global conversations.

Remember, I said there is more to come with our Global Funding ideas and opportunities and how to win them. So, you should look forward to our third part, where I will discuss the mistakes and lessons from those who crossed my path, including myself, and how you, too, can harness all of them.