Our Story
We make trade bankable by bridging the space between grants and commercial capital-so more trade-enabling projects reach execution and scale.
Why catalytic finance, why now
Our model responds to two urgent challenges: the decline in grant funding for trade infrastructure, and persistent barriers SMEs face in accessing finance. We address these by deploying a revolving fund that reduces the cost of project preparation, supports commercially viable infrastructure, and catalyses innovative financing solutions for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
How we create bankable outcomes
Prepare
Finance project preparation so concepts become
investment-ready
De-risk
Blend concessional and private finance at the right stage
Mobilise & recycle
Crowd in capital and revolve returns through a transparent revenue model
What we focus on
Trade Infrastructure
- OSBPs
- Logistics facilities
- Ports
- Equipment leasing
- Industrial parks
Digital Infrastructure
- Single windows
- E-commerce platforms
- Digital trade corridors
- Payments & cybersecurity
- Digital ID & Al analytics
Trade Finance
- Supply chain finance
- MSME credit facilities
Mission
To elevate Africa’s exports by amplifying trade finance and infrastructure investment.
Vision
To catalyse African Trade for Prosperity.
The shift that demanded a new model
As traditional budgetary support from governments and donors reduced, TradeMark Africa created TCA as a catalytic capital facility to pilot new commercial models for trade infrastructure.
Establishment & ownership
TCA is a wholly owned subsidiary of TradeMark Africa.
Initial investment of $25 million from USAID.
Mobilise $300 million in five to seven years from DFIs, private investors, and public funds.
Described as set up in 2022 in TradeMark Africa ecosystem materials.
Why 'revolving' matters
TCA deploys catalytic finance with cost-recovery and recycling in mind-so projects can be prepared, financed, and maintained sustainably, reducing long-term dependency on grants.
How we evaluate investments
Transparency commitments
Assumptions and approvals are documented
Clear owners and timelines
Every claim has a source (report/project page/factsheet)
Governance model
TradeMark Africa (TMA)
Oversight and strategy
Execution and performance
Board of Directors
Board Committees (Proposed - confirm)
Committee membership and charters available on request.
Audit & Risk Committee
Financial integrity, risk oversight, compliance
Investment Committee
Investment approvals, portfolio performance, concentration risk
People & Governance Committee
Leadership, performance, culture, governance effectiveness
Leadership
“We are scaling a model that mobilises capital into trade- enabling infrastructure and SME finance-anchored in governance and transparency.”
Board leadership
“We de-risk investments so capital flows into projects that accelerate exports, create jobs, and promote inclusive growth.”
CEO
What leadership prioritises
Bankability
Readiness, structuring, risk mitigation
Accountability
Clear criteria, reporting, auditability
Impact
Inclusive trade outcomes, women and youth SMEs focus