Grow Africa is a pioneering initiative to drive private investment in African agriculture. Founded in 2011 by the African Union, the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), and the World Economic Forum (WEF), Grow Africa brokers collaboration between governments, international and domestic agricultural companies, and smallholder farmers, to lower the risks and costs of investing in African agriculture. Key findings: In 2014, Grow Africa created 30,000 jobs, reached 2.5 million smallholders, and brokered investment of US$1 billion. Governments and development partners committed to invest in African agriculture and provided essential inputs. Main lesson: Three main factors drive private investment in African agriculture: mechanisms that support responsible private investment to prevent land grabs and protect the environment; increased engagement of the public sector; and an attractive business environment. Key recommendations: Capacity-building organizations should strengthen the capacities of African governments in creating the right environment, through policy reform, regional integration, improved competitiveness, and so on. They should also use their experience to train African civil society to advocate for and ensure that private investment is responsible and inclusive.