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
worldwide
University of Reading — Research Grant
IMAGINE if… is a research grant for the provision of research and business support by the University of Reading and Henley Business School. The research grant is worth up to the value of £100 thousand. Shortlisted finalists will be paired with counselors and researchers before preparing a business proposal to solve a global development challenge. Candidates aged 18 and over from around the world are eligible to apply. The closing date for entries is 07 January 2024. Details here
Sustainable Energy for All — Women in STEM Traineeship
Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) helps women and youth in energy transition by supporting their entry into and career progression within the sector. The SEforALL Traineeship provides a training opportunity complemented by on-the-job learning, including site visits, workshops, and supplementary training programs. Applicants must be 18-35 years of age and be nationals or have the right to work in Sierra Leone. The closing date is 11 January 2024. SEforALL Traineeship
SVG Ventures — THRIVE Academy
Silicon Valley Global Ventures is an investment, technology and advisory firm that invests in companies that go through their accelerator program. The THRIVE Academy supports idea stage and pre-seed stage startups in the agri-food tech sector. The 12-week accelerator program helps startups and researchers looking to commercialize their innovations. The application deadline is 12 January 2024. THRIVE Academy
Milkywire — Climate Transformation Fund
The Milkywire Climate Transformation Fund (CTF) is a charitable fund that supports pioneering projects needed to reach global net zero. The fund supports nature-based solutions implemented by non-profit organizations that help to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change, such as afforestation, reforestation, forest preservation, restoration of degraded lands, and projects that directly avoid or reduce emissions. Funding typically ranges from US$150 thousand to US$300 thousand. The current call for proposals closes 21 January 2024. Climate Transformation Fund
United Nations — Local Pathways Fellowship
The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network – Youth Initiative (SDSN Youth) recruits participants for its 2024 cohort of the Local Pathways Fellows. The 10-months fellowship program provides young leaders with a platform, capacity building, training opportunities and contacts of leading development experts and practitioners. The Local Pathways Fellowship is unpaid. Fellows will benefit from global visibility and exposure. Young candidates (18-30 years) working towards achieving any of the Sustainable Development Goals and representing any city or country in the world are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted until 22 January 2024. Link to Local Pathways
AgFunder — Foodtech and Agtech Accelerator
The GROW Impact Accelerator Program is a five-month accelerator for startups operating in new frontiers of foodtech and agtech. The program is designed for international startups looking to expand into Asia, and for regional startups to launch on the global stage. Companies receive US$100 thousand worth of cash and in-kind investments. Applications are open until 02 February 2024. GROW Impact Accelerator
Singapore International Foundation — Young Social Entrepreneurs
Young Social Entrepreneurs (YSE) Global is an eight-month program for young changemakers who wish to start or scale up their social enterprises in Singapore and beyond. Participants have access to online workshops, remote mentorship, regional learning and pitching sessions. Shortlisted teams have the chance to win S$20 thousand in funding to launch or scale their social enterprise. Eligibility extends to individuals aged between 18 to 35 years, with a viable and innovative business solution to a social issue anywhere in the world. The YSE Global is open to participants of all nationalities. The application deadline is 02 February 2024. YSE Global
University of Rhode Island — Science Immersion Workshop for Journalists
The University of Rhode Island’s Metcalf Institute for Marine & Environmental Reporting accepts applications for its annual Science Immersion Workshop for Journalists. The workshop provides journalists with access to leading scientists and policymakers and a chance to gain a deeper understanding of science-based stories on natural, social, and engineering research guiding an equitable transition to clean energy. The fellowship is designed for early- to mid-career, full-time journalists worldwide. The 2024 annual workshop will explore the clean energy transition. The application deadline is 12 February 2024. About the workshop and how to apply
World Bank — Youth Innovation Challenge
The World Bank invites youth aquapreneurs (age 18-35) to apply to the Youth Innovation Challenge: Water Solutions for a New Climate Reality. Participants will receive training, support, and mentorship from World Bank professionals. The challenge is open to youth entrepreneurs from around the world. Applications are due by 13 February 2024. World Bank Youth Innovation Challenge