The Catalyst Fund makes small grants for ideas that are early-stage, unconventional, and innovative. It favors bold ideas that depart from the status quo, and that look at a problem and its solution in a new light. There are no restrictions by theme or place (and may include the subjects of the Terra Viva Grants Directory). Proposals can take the form of cutting-edge products, experimental programs, new services, inventions, etc. Eligibility for funding extends to anyone in the world, individuals and teams. Grants range from US$2,500 to US$15 thousand. The Fund accepts applications on a continuous basis with no deadlines. Find out more
energy
Global Innovation Fund — Social Innovations for the Developing World
The Global Innovation Fund (GIF) welcomes proposals of innovative and cost-effective solutions that address any major development challenge (including energy, water access, agriculture and fisheries) in any country or in multiple countries of the developing world. The program is open to teams and coalitions from social enterprises, for-profit companies, NGOs, government agencies, international organizations, and researchers anywhere in the world. GIF offers grants, loans, and equity investments ranging from US$230 thousand to US$15 million. Applicants should propose the level and type of funding that is appropriate for their innovation, based on the stage of development. GIF accepts applications on a continuous basis. Information
Hult Prize Foundation — Hult Prize Challenge
The Hult Prize is a start-up accelerator for social entrepreneurship which brings together college and university students to solve the world’s most pressing issues. In 2025, participants can pitch any idea for a social enterprise, as long as it is world-changing and aligned with at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Hult Prize runs regional competitions around the world, campus events, a national competition, and online for the chance to join the Global Accelerator Program. The winning team will be awarded US$1 million in seed capital. Hult Prize
Earth Journalism Network — Workshop on Renewable Energy
The Earth Journalism Network (EJN) invite communicators to join a workshop on renewable energy. The workshop sessions are designed to strengthen the skills of communicators to explore relatively under-reported renewable energy issues in India. Communicators based anywhere in India are eligible. The organizers will cover the cost of travel, accommodation and meals of selected participants. The application deadline is 10 January 2025. Workshop on Renewable Energy
AIIDEV Africa — Sustainable Energy Accelerator
The Sustainable Energy Accelerator (SEA) is an innovation program aimed at promoting sustainable energy solutions and fostering entrepreneurship in the energy sector. The accelerator program provides selected participants with a supportive environment to develop their energy solutions. Applicants must be nationals of a Sub-Saharan African country and be between the ages of 21 and 40. The application deadline is 15 January 2025. Africa Sustainable Energy Accelerator
Energie AG Oberösterreich — Startup Innovation Challenge
Energie AG Oberösterreich seeks startups in the energy industry. The Startup Innovation Challenge invites solutions to tackle genuine problems in the energy industry that will help the company to operate more efficiently and shape a sustainable future. Energie AG will provide up to €50 thousand for developing a proof of concept. The challenge is not restricted to a particular geographic location. The deadline for submission is 31 January 2025. Energy Startup Innovation Challenge
Acumen Fund — East Africa Fellowship
The Acumen East Africa Fellows Program is a 6-month program comprising 5 seminars that gives individuals from East Africa the training they need to accelerate their social impact and leadership potential. Eligible countries are Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan & Ethiopia. Past fellows have included several in smallholder agriculture, renewable energy, waste management, fair trade, and other areas. Acumen covers all program expenses related to travel and accommodations, but it does not offer scholarships, stipends, or other funding. The application deadline is 07 February 2025. About this fellowship
EKOenergy — Solar and Wind Energy Projects
EKOenergy seeks project proposals to provide funding for solar and wind energy projects in low- and middle-income countries. The funding will be made available to renewable electricity projects aimed at alleviating energy poverty. All projects are managed by experienced organizations and are implemented in cooperation with local NGOs. EKOenergy will support 15-20 new projects of €15 thousand to €40 thousand each. The implementing organization must have experience in the field of renewable energy and prove strong involvement of local organizations. The deadline for proposals is 14 February 2025. EKOenergy
Campus France — Research in the Maghreb 2026
Partenariats Hubert Curien (PHC) du Maghreb supports research cooperation between France and Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia on renewable energy, environment and health, and other development topics. Each project can request up to €27 thousand per year. The announcement includes contact information in each participating country. The closing date for applications is 27 February 2025. About this opportunity
Science Park Graz — Startup Idea Competition 2025
The Science Park Graz invites young inventors to submit their business ideas to the Startup Idea Competition in one of six categories, including Energy & Environment. The winners in each category will be invited to the award ceremony in Graz, Austria and receive €2 thousand each. The deadline for idea submission is 28 February 2025. Find the start-up idea competition