The National Youth Development Fund has approved N$14.9 million in financing for youth-owned businessses through the Development Bank of Namibia, as the fund continues to expand access to finance for young entrepreneurs.
According to Ministry of Finance spokesperson Wilson Shokoto, funding approvals of N$8.6 million were granted to 30 youth-owned enterprises through DBN between 1 November 2025 and 30 January 2026. This follows an earlier approval of N$5.3 million to 16 youth-owned enterprises announced at the official launch of the fund.
In total, 46 youth-owned enterprises have now been approved for financing through DBN, with combined approvals amounting to N$14.9 million.
Shokoto said DBN is currently finalising disbursements to several approved enterprises, while assessing about 40 additional applications. Further approvals and an update on disbursements are expected by the end of February 2026.
He said the NYDF funding window remains open, with project approvals made on a continuous basis as applications are assessed and meet the fund’s requirements. Eligible applicants may submit applications through the Offices of Regional Governors or directly to participating development finance institutions, including DBN, Agribank and the Environmental Investment Fund.
“The NYDF remains committed to supporting viable youth-owned enterprises and strengthening their contribution to economic growth and employment creation,” Shokoto said.
The NYDF is a N$500 million initiative, with N$257 million earmarked for disbursement in the 2025/26 financial year. The fund provides a mix of affordable loans and grants to Namibians aged between 18 and 35, supporting enterprises ranging from start-ups to expanding businesses.
Start-up enterprises can access loans of between N$60,000 and N$200,000 at an interest rate of 2%, while businesses seeking to scale may qualify for funding of up to N$1 million at slightly higher rates. The fund does not require collateral, and approved loans include a grace period of up to 12 months before repayments commence.
The NYDF is managed by DBN, Agribank and the Environmental Investment Fund. Its sustainability is supported by contributions from NamibRe, DBN, NIPAM, as well as international partners including the African Development Bank and the United Nations.
