The Innovate 4 Nature Award honors projects, companies, and entrepreneurs that have developed promising, high-quality nature-positive solutions. The four key areas of the I4N Award are sustainable management of ecosystems; nature as infrastructure; regenerative agriculture; and circular nature-positive solutions. The award offers a total of CHF 100 thousand in prize money. In addition to the financial support, award winners can benefit from access to an ecosystem of partners and experts. The application deadline is 05 April 2024. Innovate 4 Nature Award
business/enterprise
Oppenheimer Generations Foundation — JWO Research Grant
The Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer (JWO) Research Grant supports early-career scientists who conduct impactful research that will provide solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing problems. The proposed research should be focused on the intersection between biodiversity and the economy; environmental tipping points; pollution and impact on the environment; or the impact of basic sciences on sustainable development. A grant of US$150 thousand will support a research project or program for up to three years. Applicants must have strong links to an African academic institution, research institution, government institution, NGO, or for-profit organization. The application deadline is 03 May 2024. JWO Research Grant
Biomimicry Institute — Accelerator Program
The Biomimicry Institute seeks applications for its Ray of Hope Accelerator. The institute supports high-impact nature-inspired startups from all over the globe. Each selected startup receives US$15 thousand in non-dilutive funding and over US$50 thousand worth of in-kind services. The program includes tailored coaching, investor introductions, and a 4-day Nature Retreat. The application deadline is 03 May 2024. Know more
Village Capital — Greentech Africa
Village Capital launches an investment readiness program to advance innovative and sustainable solutions, actively contributing towards building resilience and mitigating the effects of climate change across Africa. The program currently accepts startups from Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa, which promote sustainable solutions for underestimated communities. The program will run for twelve weeks. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis, through 10 May 2024. Greentech Africa
Village Capital — Greentech Asia
Village Capital launches an investment readiness program that supports startups with innovative solutions to accelerate sustainable development. The program currently accepts startups from Malaysia and Vietnam, addressing underestimated communities in the region. The program will run for twelve weeks. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis, through 10 May 2024. Greentech Asia
Village Capital — Greentech LATAM
Village Capital launches an investment readiness program that supports startups with innovative solutions to accelerate sustainable development. The program currently accepts startups from Argentina, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, and Uruguay, addressing underestimated communities in the region. The program will run for twelve weeks. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis, through 10 May 2024. Greentech LATAM
French Development Agency — Digital Energy Challenge for Start-ups
The Digital Energy Challenge supports the development of innovative solutions for energy access, the integration of renewable energy, and utility performance improvement. The Call for Projects targets projects based in Sub-Saharan Africa. Projects must have a core element of digital technology (telecom, computer, or cloud-based). The Challenge will award grant-based funding of €150 thousand to 5-8 start-up projects. The application deadline for project submission is 15 May 2024. Digital Energy Challenge Sub-Saharan Africa
African Business Heroes — Business Heroes Competition 2024
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors, and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 19 May 2024. African Business Heroes
Inter-American Development Bank — Bioeconomy Entrepreneurship in the Amazon Basin
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) seeks to support innovative bio-businesses in the Amazon Basin capable of supporting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the resilience of targeted value chains and ecosystems in the Amazon region. Applicants can apply for technical assistance in the order of US$ 250 thousand to a maximum of US$ 500 thousand. Eligibility extends to startups, cooperatives, innovation agencies, producer associations, and knowledge institutions. Proposals will be received on a rolling basis until 15 May 2025. Bioeconomy Entrepreneurship
SEED — Replicator Workshop for Eco-Enterprises
The SEED Replicator program offers incubation workshops to identify opportunities for enterprise creation and to guide aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners looking for partnerships to build an eco-inclusive business model. Successful alumni can apply for a SEED Grant which pays for your immediate necessary activities, measures, or machinery required to establish the new enterprise. SEED Replicator Program currently invites applications from entrepreneurs in India. Participation is free, although participants need to cover their transportation costs and accommodation. The application deadline is 26 February 2024. Click here to join