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
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Energy Foundation — China Sustainable Energy Program
The Foundation’s China Sustainable Energy Program makes grants for planning, policies, research, and training to improve energy efficiency and to reduce air pollution and carbon emissions in China. Grant eligibility extends to organizations in China and the USA. They include research institutes and foundations; universities; professional organizations, societies, and academies; energy technology centers; policy groups and think tanks; state-owned energy companies; regulatory agencies; and NGOs. Proposals are accepted on a continuous basis. Link
Amazon Web Services — Compute for Climate
The AWS Compute for Climate Fellowship supports startups and innovators using cloud computing to develop scalable climate solutions. The program provides selected fellows with up to US$100 thousand in AWS credits, technical mentorship, and access to AWS experts to accelerate their projects in areas such as climate modeling, carbon tracking, and sustainable technology. Applicants should be early-stage founders or researchers leveraging cloud computing for climate impact. The fellowship is open to global participants. Applications will be accepted until 06 April 2025. Amazon Web Services
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
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 02 May 2025. JWO Research Grant
Village Capital — Greentech Africa
Village Capital supports 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 09 May 2025. Greentech Africa
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 3 to 4 start-up projects. The application deadline for project submission is 16 May 2025. Digital Energy Challenge
Orange Telecom — Orange Social Venture Prize 2025
The Orange Social Venture Prize recognizes entrepreneurs and start-up organizations that make innovative use of technology in agriculture, energy, and other fields of development. The geographical focus is Africa and the Middle East. Prizes range from €10 thousand to €25 thousand, plus professional support for a period of six months. In addition, Orange will reward more start-ups with the International Women’s Prize worth €20 thousand. The registration deadline is 18 May 2025. Orange Social Venture Prize
African Business Heroes — Business Heroes Competition 2025
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 23 May 2025. African Business Heroes
Startup SG — Global Startup Competition
Startup SG seeks global startups to compete in the Slingshot 2025 Global Startup Competition. Entries to the competition need to present game-changing innovation in one of four challenge categories, including Environment, Energy and Green Technologies (e.g., Agriculture, Clean Energy, Food, or Green Technology). The Top 100 Global Startups will pitch to a global audience and compete for cash and grant prizes worth up to S$200 thousand. Interested participants have to register on the platform by 11 July 2025. Link to Slingshot