Do you have a solution that creates a positive social, economic, and environmental impact in your country? Apply for funding from the Global Innovation Fund.
Do you have a solution that creates a positive social, economic, and environmental impact in your country? Apply for funding from the Global Innovation Fund.
The Global Innovation Fund (GIF), an initiative aiming to support and scale innovative solutions to global development challenges, invites applicants for the 2023 edition. Launched in 2014, GIF provides funding, expertise, and networks to help innovators turn their ideas into impactful solutions. The primary aim of the Global Innovation Fund is to identify and support innovative ideas that have the potential to create positive social, economic, and environmental impact in developing countries.
The GIF program is designed to benefit individuals and organizations, including entrepreneurs, researchers, social enterprises, non-profit organizations, and government entities. The program mainly focuses on supporting innovations that address the needs of vulnerable populations, such as women, children, refugees, and those living in poverty.
Successful applicants to the program will receive the following:
- Funding at various stages of innovation, including seed, scale-up, and performance-based funding
- Access to a network of experts, mentors, and advisors who guide and support innovators. This includes technical expertise, business development support, and connections to potential partners and investors
- Learning and knowledge sharing among innovators through workshops, webinars, and peer-to-peer exchanges
Interested applicants must fulfil the following to be eligible for the GIF program:
- Be innovative, offering a new approach or significantly improving upon existing solutions
- Demonstrate the potential to create positive social, economic, or environmental impact, particularly in developing countries
- Have the potential to scale up and reach a large number of beneficiaries
- Have a clear plan for the financial sustainability of their innovation beyond the GIF funding
- Have a solution aligned with at least one of GIF’s focus areas: agriculture, energy, health, education, and governance
To apply for the GIF program, visit Applications.
Are you a social entrepreneur that addresses pressing needs in your community? Apply for funding from the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation
Are you a social entrepreneur that addresses pressing needs in your community? Apply for funding from the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation.
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK), a global venture philanthropy supporting early-stage, high-impact social enterprises, invites social entrepreneurs to apply for funding. The foundation seeks to support outsized impact through entrepreneurs and enterprises that address pressing societal problems affecting people.
The foundation seeks to find social enterprises that fulfil the following:
- Address a critical social or environmental issue as the focus of their work
- Have founders who intend to expand their impact significantly over time
- Be operating in Africa, Europe, India, Latin America, and the United States
- Be an independent non-profit or impact-first, mission-driven for-profit entity
- Have one or more founders who are full-time or intend to be
- Demonstrate diversity of people proximate to the problem at hand and a commitment to foster justice, equity, inclusion, and belonging practices
- Have a program, product or service already in the market with an early indication for impact
Applicants admitted for interviews will be taken through three phases of interviews to assess their eligibility for funding. Successful applicants will be accepted through a final due diligence phase to work towards clear goals for the new venture, including metrics and milestones to help the social enterprise achieve its mission.
Applicants that have successfully passed through all the interviews will receive funding twice a year over a three-year term, totalling USD 300,000.
To apply for the opportunity, visit: Application form
Are you an entrepreneur launching a product or looking to improve an existing one? Apply for funding and business development support from the Because Accelerator program.
Are you an entrepreneur launching a product or looking to improve an existing one? Apply for the Because Accelerator program.
Because International, a international organisation, invites applicants for the Because Accelerator program, an initiative designed to foster the growth and development of early-stage startups globally in various industries. The primary aim of this program is to provide entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and mentorship needed to transform their innovative ideas into thriving businesses.
Program participants will receive the following benefits:
- Financial support in the form of seed capital, key for product development, hiring talent, and scaling operations
- Mentorship and guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Access to a network of investors, potential partners, customers, and fellow entrepreneurs
- Education and training through workshops and educational sessions to help founders gain a deeper understanding of various aspects of running a successful business, from financial management to marketing and sales strategies
- Workspace and resources such as software, hardware, and legal support further reduce operational costs
Interested participants must fulfill the following to apply:
- Early-Stage: The program typically targets early-stage startups, often at the pre-seed or seed stage. However, some programs may consider startups at slightly more advanced stages as well.
- Innovative Idea: Startups must have a unique and innovative business idea or product that has the potential for scalability and growth.
- Dedication and Commitment: Founders and teams should demonstrate a high level of dedication, commitment, and passion for their venture.
- Coachability: Accelerator programs look for founders who are open to feedback, willing to learn, and adaptable. Coachability is often a crucial factor in the selection process.
- Market Potential: The startup’s target market should have significant potential for growth and expansion.
- Scalability: The business should have the potential to scale rapidly, and the accelerator program should be able to provide the necessary resources and support to facilitate this growth.
To apply for the program, visit Application form.
Are you an entrepreneur or business operating in the waste and circular economy sector? Apply for funding from the Circular Economy Programme before 23 October 2023
Are you an entrepreneur or business operating in the waste and circular economy sector? Apply for funding from the Circular Economy Programme before 23 October 2023
Ireme Invest, Rwanda’s Green Investment Facility, invites applicants for the Circular Economy Programme under the Project Preparation Facility. The programme aims to foster innovation, investment and collaborations across various sectors by supporting businesses working in the waste and circular economy sector.
Successful participants will benefit from the following:
- Expert mentorship for 15 weeks to enhance products or services and prepare them for market testing and fundraising
- Individual on-site coaching
- Grant investment funding of up to Rwf 60,000,000 for ten participating businesses based on achieved milestones
- Investor pitching and connection for ten supported businesses with investors in the sector
Interested participants must have businesses operating in the sector. Solutions should address plastics in construction, earth reinforcement, plastics in agriculture, non-biodegradable or non-recyclable packaging materials, payment systems for waste services, segregated household waste collection, circular product design, and reuse or refill systems.
For more information about the programme and application details, visit: Circular Economy Programme.
Do you have an innovative solution that contributes to sustainable development? Apply for funding from the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Innovation for Sustainable Development Awards before 15 October 2023
Do you have an innovative solution that contributes to sustainable development? Apply for funding from the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Innovation for Sustainable Development Awards before 15 October 2023
The Commonwealth Secretariat, an intergovernmental organisation that supports member countries and coordinates Commonwealth activities invites applicants for the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Innovation for Sustainable Development Awards. The aim of the Awards is to recognize and reward outstanding innovations that contribute to sustainable development within the Commonwealth member countries. These awards serve as a platform to showcase innovative ideas, technologies, and initiatives that have the potential to create positive social, economic, and environmental impacts.
Winning the Awards offers several benefits, including:
- Global recognition and visibility for the awarded innovation
- Increased opportunities for investment, partnerships, and collaborations
- Platform for knowledge sharing and learning among innovators and stakeholders
- Amplified reach and impact of the innovation
- Potential for further scaling up and replication in different contexts
Interested applicants should have innovative solutions that meet the following criteria:
- Implementation within a Commonwealth member country (Rwanda included)
- Contribution to the sustainable development goals of the specific nation
- Demonstrated clear and measurable impact on sustainable development
- Addressing social, economic, or environmental challenges
- Scalable, replicable, and potential for long-term sustainability
- Showcasing creativity, originality, and effectiveness in problem-solving
- Open to individuals, organizations, and partnerships across sectors
For more information and application details, visit the Awards Platform
Do you have a research-backed innovation addressing food security? Apply for funding and mentorship from the WFP Ignite SEED Innovation Programme before 9 October 2023.
Do you have a research-backed innovation addressing food security? Apply for funding and mentorship from the WFP Ignite SEED Innovation Programme before 9 October 2023.
The World Food Program Ignite Innovation Hub invites early-stage innovators with research-backed ideas in the food systems to apply for the Ignite SEED Innovation Programme. The ten-month Program aims to help innovators develop and scale their solutions to address food security and improve climate resilience for local communities.
Selected participants will receive the following benefits:
- Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and food systems experts
- Access to WFP’s network of partners and stakeholders
- Funding to support prototyping, testing, and scaling their solutions
- Training and workshops on business development, marketing, and fundraising
Interested participants must meet the following criteria to apply:
- Have a research-backed idea or invention in the food systems sector
- Have at least two team members based in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, or Somalia
- Be interested in transforming their idea into a venture
- Be passionate about disrupting food systems to achieve zero hunger
- Be available for program activities for the duration of the innovation program, including in-person and online sessions
- Female entrepreneurs and non-academic innovators are specifically encouraged to apply
Innovators interested in the Program must submit a proposal outlining their idea, team, and how they plan to use the Program to scale their solution. To apply, visit: Application form
Do you have a health tech solution to improve the lives of children? Apply for the UNICEF Innovation Fund before 20 October 2023
Do you have a health tech solution to improve the lives of children? Apply for the UNICEF Innovation Fund before 20 October 2023
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has launched a new funding opportunity for health tech startups that use cutting-edge technologies to improve the lives of children. The UNICEF Innovation Fund is offering up to US$100,000 in equity-free funding to early-stage startups that are registered in one of UNICEF’s program countries.
The Fund is particularly interested in startups that are using artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), data science, blockchain, and extended reality (XR) to address challenges in child health, nutrition, and mental health. Specific areas of interest include:
- Developing new diagnostic tools and treatments for childhood diseases
- Improving access to healthcare in remote and underserved communities
- Using technology to prevent child abuse and neglect
- Promoting mental health and well-being among children
Startups eligible for funding must have a working prototype and a commitment to open-source licensing. Female and youth-led/founded startups are encouraged to apply.
Successful participants will receive the following benefits:
- Up to US$100,000 in equity-free funding
- Access to UNICEF’s network of experts and partners
- Support for developing and scaling your solution
- Increased visibility for your startup
To apply for the Fund, visit Application
Are you an export-oriented business in need of funding? Apply for the EGF Ambuka Competition before 17 September 2023
Are you an export-oriented business in need of funding? Apply for the EGF Ambuka Competition before 17 September 2023
The Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) invites participants to apply for funding from the Export Growth Fund (EGF) through its Ambuka Competition. The Fund was established with the aim of supporting and stimulating the growth of export-oriented businesses in Rwanda by providing much-needed affordable financing and technical assistance.
The EGF offers a number of benefits to eligible businesses, including:
- Flexible financing terms that are tailored to the needs of each business with terms of up to 10 years and interest rates of up to 9%.
- Collateral-free financing, making it easier for businesses to access financing even if they do not have assets to pledge.
- Technical assistance to help businesses improve their export performance. This includes things like training on market research, product development, and export documentation.
Interested participants must meet the following criteria to apply:
- Be a Rwandan or registered Rwandan company/Enterprise operating in Rwanda.
- Having already made exports or intending to make exports
- Having a comprehensive business plan reflecting the targeted increase in exports, projections of expected production, exports return, expected developmental impacts and profits for the project and/or the company
- Having financial statements of the last 3 years for existing companies. 1- and 2-year financial statements are applicable to companies with 1 and 2 years of existence
- Having bank statements for 1 year
- Having defined financing needs in investment, working capital or matching grant
- Commit to comply with environmental regulations
To apply, visit: Ambuka Competition Applications
Do you have an innovative idea that addresses a social challenge? Apply for funding and business development support from the Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge before 20 August 2023
Do you have an innovative idea that addresses a social challenge? Apply for funding and business development support from the Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge before 20 August 2023
The Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge, a global competition that aims to empower young social innovators, invites applications for its 2023 edition. The Challenge is designed to provide young social innovators with the resources and support they need to develop and implement their ideas.
Participants will have access to a world-leading Digital Incubator program, which includes e-learning, live events, peer support, and the opportunity to access expert mentors from the world’s leading companies. The Challenge also offers a cash prize of up to $10,000 for the best ideas.
Winners will be selected by a panel of judges who will be looking for ideas that are innovative, scalable, and have the potential to make a real impact on the world. Interested participants must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply:
- Be aged 18-30 years old
- Be from anywhere in the world
- Have an idea for a social innovation project
- Be able to commit to the entire duration of the Challenge (August 2023 – February 2024)
To apply, visit: Application
Do you have a tech solution that creates social change in your community? Apply for funding from ACT Foundation’s Changemaker Innovation Challenge before 31 July 2023
Do you have a tech solution that creates social change in your community? Apply for funding from ACT Foundation’s Changemaker Innovation Challenge before 31 July 2023
The Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation invites applicants to the Changemakers Innovation Challenge, which recognizes and rewards innovative social impact projects that use technology. The Challenge is open to African organizations (non-profits, businesses, and social enterprises) working to address a social or environmental challenge.
Winners of the Challenge will receive the following benefits:
- A cash prize of $10,000 to support their project.
- Access to a network of mentors and experts who can help them to develop and grow their projects.
- Exposure to potential funders and partners.
Interested participants must meet the following criteria to apply:
- Be a registered non-profit, business, or social enterprise in Africa.
- Be using technology to create social change in their communities.
- Have a project that is already in operation or ready to be implemented.
To apply, visit: Changemakers Innovation Challenge Application
The Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation invites applicants to the Changemakers Innovation Challenge, which recognizes and rewards innovative social impact projects that use technology. The Challenge is open to African organizations (non-profits, businesses, and social enterprises) working to address a social or environmental challenge.
Winners of the Challenge will receive the following benefits:
- A cash prize of $10,000 to support their project.
- Access to a network of mentors and experts who can help them to develop and grow their projects.
- Exposure to potential funders and partners.
Interested participants must meet the following criteria to apply:
- Be a registered non-profit, business, or social enterprise in Africa.
- Be using technology to create social change in their communities.
- Have a project that is already in operation or ready to be implemented.
To apply, visit: Changemakers Innovation Challenge Application