The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) accepts applications for the Higher Education and the SDGs Challenge Grants to fund collaborative work around the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The grants are open to professional and academic staff at ACU member universities. Four grants of £2,500 are available. Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with member universities to promote further Commonwealth partnerships or other organizations such as local governments. The closing date is 03 June 2025. Details here
Africa
Global Landscapes Forum — GLFx Local Chapters
The Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) calls for local non-governmental organizations and grassroots initiatives to join the GLFx network as local chapters. Selected organizations will receive access to various opportunities and resources to support sustainable landscapes across the world, with a specific focus on Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The application deadline is 29 June 2025. More about GLFx
Vital Voices — Fellowships for Women Entrepreneurs
Vital Voices offers GROW Fellowships to women entrepreneurs who own small and medium-sized businesses. The program includes customized business skills training, technical assistance, leadership development, and access to networks to grow their businesses. Thematic business areas may include agriculture, fisheries, and forestry with potential for growth. A limited number of need and merit-based scholarships will be available. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2025. GROW Fellowships
African Development Bank — Agri-Food Financing
Seed Lab offers capacity building supporting agri-food businesses across Sub-Saharan Africa. Prioritization will be given to businesses with integrated gender-inclusive and climate-resilient practices. The 3-month program offers help with strategic planning, financial management, business operations, and leadership, to support sustainable growth. The deadline for applications is 25 April 2025. More information
Village Capital — Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Africa
Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Africa 2025 is a program that supports climate-focused startups in Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. Village Capital seeks entrepreneurs focused on climate adaptation, renewable energy, blue economy, and food security solutions. Participants will access mentorship, investor connections, financial modeling support, and exposure opportunities. Eligibility extends to for-profit entities in the target countries. Applications close on 30 April 2025. Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship Africa
Africa Food Prize — Call for Nominations 2025
The Africa Food Prize honors outstanding contributions to agriculture and food production in the challenge to combat hunger and reduce poverty in Africa. The Prize can be awarded for a specific contribution or achievement, or a series of efforts and results within the last few years. Nominations are open to qualified candidates irrespective of their nationalities, professions, or locations. The Prize is US$100 thousand (to be shared if there is more than one winner), a diploma, and a trophy. The deadline for nominations (English, French) is 27 June 2025. Find the prize
Mastercard Foundation — Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria
The Mastercard Foundation supports economically disadvantaged yet academically gifted youth in Africa who are committed to effecting positive change on the continent. The Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria provides financial support (tuition, accommodation, learning materials, transportation, and monthly stipend) for studies in all subject areas; however, there is a preference for science students (including agriculture and natural resources). Applicants must prove critical economic needs to be eligible. Applications close on 30 June 2025. Scholars Program
SAIS — Female Founder Award
The SAIS Female Founder Award is a company development and accelerator program for African tech start-ups in the agriculture, food, and livestock sectors. The award aims to strengthen the visibility of female-led start-ups and to promote female founders in Africa. The three winners will win in-kind support worth up to €30 thousand. The application deadline is 12 May 2025. SAIS Female Founder Award
Catalyst Fund — Climate Resilience Africa
The Catalyst Fund supports early-stage tech startups that are developing solutions for climate adaptation and resilience in Africa. Startups receive US$150 thousand in investment and An additional US$50 thousand worth of tailored venture-building assistance. Eligibility extends to companies developing technology solutions aimed at climate adaptation and resilience serving populations within Africa. Startups that are interested in partnering with the Catalyst Fund can submit a project pitch. Link
Elevate Bridge Builders — Sanitation & Hygiene Awards
The Middle East & Africa Cleaning, Sanitation & Hygiene Awards 2025 recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations making significant contributions to hygiene, cleaning, and sanitation. Award categories include Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Advocacy, among others. Benefits of participation include regional and international recognition, enhanced credibility, team celebration, and networking opportunities. The application deadline is 01 May 2025. Know more