Are you a seed-stage founder building sustainable solutions for Africa? Apply now for the 2025 Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator in Nairobi before 19 September 2025.

500 Global, in partnership with UNDP’s timbuktoo initiative, is now accepting applications for the 2025 Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator. This intensive 8-week hybrid program, hosted at Nairobi’s Greentech Hub, is designed to help African startups scale tech-enabled solutions that advance sustainability in key sectors including agriculture, mobility, energy, and the built environment.

The accelerator is part of a bold effort to strengthen Africa’s innovation ecosystem by equipping founders with the tools, mentorship, and networks they need to build globally competitive, impact-driven businesses. For Rwandan startups, this program is a gateway to growth, visibility, and partnerships across the continent.

The program is ideal for startups that are:

  • At the seed stage with a launched or recently introduced product
  • Based in Africa
  • Using technology or tech-enabled models to drive measurable impact
  • Led by a committed founding team (ideally 2–3 people) able to attend in-person sessions in Nairobi
  • Focused on creating sustainable solutions in agriculture, energy, mobility, or the built environment

Participants in the program will benefit from:

  • One-on-one mentorship from growth experts and sustainability specialists
  • Access to a rich network of investors, corporates, and ecosystem partners
  • Workshops, roundtables, and fireside chats covering strategy, product, marketing, and growth
  • A three-day in-person retreat focused on leadership, team dynamics, and wellness
  • A curated community of peers from across the Global South
  • The opportunity to pitch at a high-profile Demo Day in Nairobi
  • A tuition-free, non-equity-based program with no participation fee

The accelerator will run from 27 October to 19 December 2025, with the first four weeks held in-person at Nairobi’s Greentech Hub and the following four weeks in a hybrid format. All sessions will be conducted in English, and applicants must be able to commit to the full program duration.

Applications are now open. Early applicants are encouraged to apply before 29 August 2025 for priority consideration, while the final deadline is 19 September 2025.

Apply today and join a cohort of Africa’s boldest innovators working to shape a sustainable future.