The Mastercard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation is a global philanthropy that supports economic inclusion, access to education, and youth employment. In Kenya, it plays a major role in strengthening agriculture, rural livelihoods, and digital innovation for smallholder farmers and agribusiness enterprises.

The foundation focuses on expanding opportunities for young people in agriculture. It supports training programs, value chain development, and access to digital tools that help farmers improve productivity. Many initiatives promote climate-smart farming, efficient resource use, and adoption of modern technologies. These efforts help smallholders increase yields, reduce losses, and access stable markets.

Through partnerships with cooperatives, agribusinesses, NGOs, and government agencies, the Mastercard Foundation funds programs that build skills, provide access to finance, and develop sustainable enterprises. One flagship effort, the Young Africa Works Program, supports youth-led agribusinesses and strengthens agricultural value chains through training, mentorship, and business development services.

The foundation also promotes financial inclusion through digital platforms. It supports mobile-based payments, savings tools, and credit solutions that help smallholder farmers manage cash flow and access resources.

Accessing Mastercard Foundation support typically involves working through implementing partners, such as development organizations, farmer networks, or accredited training institutions. Applicants must demonstrate strong social impact, youth inclusion, and alignment with long-term sustainability goals.

Through funding, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships, the Mastercard Foundation empowers farmers, cooperatives, and agribusinesses to grow. Consequently, it plays a significant role in Kenya’s agricultural transformation by promoting youth employment, digital adoption, and inclusive rural development.