Funding Opportunities

Funder: Tony Elumelu Foundation
Description: African startups can access funding, training, and mentorship to grow scalable businesses across the continent.

Deadline: 31 January 2026
Link: https://www.tonyelumelufoundation.org/tef-entrepreneurship-programme

Funder: Shell Foundation
Description: Young African entrepreneurs can pitch innovative business ideas for grants, mentorship, and global recognition.

Deadline: 31 March 2026
Link: https://www.shelllivewire.org/africa

Funder: Africa Climate Ventures
Description: Early-stage African clean energy and climate startups can apply for equity funding and strategic support.

Deadline: 15 February 2026
Link: https://africaclimatevernures.org/apply

Funder: EIT Climate-KIC
Description: African startups addressing climate change can join a fully funded accelerator for mentorship, funding, and pilot opportunities.

Deadline: 31 March 2026
Link: https://www.climate-kic.org/accelerator

Funder: United States African Development Foundation
Description: African startups and community organizations can apply for seed grants up to USD 250,000 to scale solutions locally.

Link: https://www.usadf.gov/seed-grants

Funder: Mastercard Foundation
Description: African entrepreneurs creating employment opportunities for youth can apply for funding and incubation support.

Deadline: 31 May 2026
Link: https://mastercardfoundation.org/young-africa-works

Funder: US Department of State & AWEP
Description: Female founders can access mentorship, training, and funding to scale their ventures across Africa.

Deadline: 31 March 2026
Link: https://africanwomen.org

Funder: Google.org
Description: African social enterprises using technology for positive impact can apply for funding, mentorship, and global visibility.

Deadline: 30 March 2026
Link: https://impactchallenge.withgoogle.com/africa

Funder: UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
Description: Researchers addressing global challenges in developing countries can apply for funding and collaborative opportunities.

Deadline: 10 April 2026
Link: https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/global-challenges-research-fund

Funder: African Innovation Foundation
Description: African innovators can submit impactful solutions in health, agriculture, education, and technology for recognition and prize money.

Deadline: 30 June 2026
Link: https://innovationprizeforafrica.org