Published: 27 Sep 2024 383 views
The Timbuktoo GreenTech Hub in Kenya is seeking visionary GreenTech entrepreneurs with scalable, impact-driven solutions to address Africa’s energy challenges. The Energy Accelerator Program focuses on innovative renewable energy technologies that improve energy access and sustainability across the continent. Participants will receive mentorship, technical support, and access to funding, aiming to drive green industrialization in Africa. Applications are now open for entrepreneurs committed to leveraging technology to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. We help countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience in order to sustain development results. This is a critical time for the world. At UNDP, we see this period as a huge opportunity to advance the global sustainable development agenda. In September 2015, world leaders adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all ... continue reading
| Application Deadline | 20 Oct 2024 |
| Country to study | Kenya |
| Type | Entrepreneurs |
| Sponsor | United Nations Development Program (UNDP) |
| Gender | Men and Women |
Membership in the inaugural cohort of timbuktoo GreenTech Hub and entire timbuktoo ecosystem across Africa.
Mentorship from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs.
Access to technical experts and mentors for product development support.
Access to regulatory sandbox to prototype and commercialize solutions within Kenya’s vibrant smart city.
Access to blended financing options for enterprise growth and scale.
Networking with potential partners, collaborators, and customers.
Access to investor networks.
Resources and support to accelerate growth and impact.
Access to networks and agencies within the larger UN system.?
Access to networks and resources within the AfCTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) system.
Impact and shape a pan-African Greentech evolution.
Access to equity-free funding to support the startups’ growth.
Groundbreaking founders and innovators across Africa who are already building startups that meet the following criteria:
Startups with founders who are nationals of an African Country.?
Startups must be legally registered and operating within Africa.?
Startups must have been in operation for a minimum of three years.
Startups must address development challenges.?
Must be a technology-enabled solution.?
Startups must have a?Minimum Viable Solution (MVS) (regulated and licensed if necessary).
Startups should have existing corporate governance systems and accountability.??
This application is limited to citizens of the African Union Member States.??
Criteria
The timbuktoo Greentech hub aims to support innovative growth stage enterprises that meet the following key criteria:
Technology-Enabled Solution: Your startup must have a technology-enabled solution at its core, utilising digital tools and platforms to drive innovation and efficiency in the financial sector.
Contribution Towards the SDGs: Your solution should align with and contribute towards one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, addressing pressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and more.
High Scalability: Your startup should demonstrate high scalability either through digital distribution channels or the ability to scale sales rapidly across markets.
Defensible Position: Your startup should have a defensible position, whether through Intellectual Property (IP) rights, network effects, domain expertise, or regional market dominance, ensuring sustainable competitive advantage in the Greentech landscape.
Innovation and uniqueness:?Novel approach to solving energy challenges, potential for disruptive impact in the renewable energy sector.
Technical feasibility:?Sound scientific/technical basis for the solution, realistic development timeline.
Regulatory compliance:?Awareness of relevant energy regulations, strategy for obtaining necessary approvals.
Programme Timeline
What is the programme timeline?
Application and Selection Process: September 24th – October 20th, 2024
Bootcamp: Mid-November 2024 (Attendance in Nairobi, Kenya)
Hybrid Acceleration: January – June 2025
The most viable and high impact startups selected from the programme will receive long-term wrap around support for a period of 6 months. The acceleration programme experience will be tailored to include: needs-based technical assistance, coaching, product refinement, and scaling support will be provided to startups. Additionally, partnerships will be facilitated to spur product iterations, market access and capital raising for the startups.
For more details, visit UNDP website.
