RES4Africa Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of RAISEAfrica – Renewables Accelerators for Innovative Startups and Entrepreneurs in Africa. In collaboration with Enel Green Power (EGP), Energias De Portugal (EDP), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and South African Institute of Chartered Accounts Enterprise Development (SAICA ED), RES4Africa aims to empower youngtalents, innovators, and entrepreneurs to contribute to a thriving and sustainable future for Africa.
RAISEAfrica is a comprehensive initiative that includes both pre-acceleration and acceleration programs, specifically designed for the renewable energy sector in Africa. The initiative is set to support and scale up renewable energy-focused projects within the African startup ecosystem by providing opportunities and a platform for young innovators to voice their ideas. The focus areas include but are not limited to Productive Uses of Energy, Water-Energy-Food Nexus, Circular Economy, Manufacturing, and Digitalization.
The Pre-Accelerator is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs in the early stages of developing a business idea, while the Accelerator targets entrepreneurs seeking market validation and business expansion. Young innovators are invited to submit their concrete and creative ideas, drawing from existing experiences or ongoing projects. RAISEAfrica will choose a minimum of three businesses to receive awards in the form of services, encompassing mentoring & coaching, networking, visibility, fundraising, and various other activities.
To be considered for the pre-accelerator and accelerator programs, applicants must meet the following benchmarks:
Pre-Accelerator:
Entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35;
Startups not registered can apply;
Solution addressing the African market;
Ownership: Either the entrepreneur must possess African country citizenship or the startup must be registered in Africa;
Operation in the renewable energy sector.
Accelerator:
Entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35;
Solution addressing the African market;
Ownership: Either the entrepreneur must possess African country citizenship or the startup must be registered in Africa;
Product/service at least at the MVP stage;
Operation in the renewable energy sector.
Applicants must complete the online standard application forms, providing essential details and supporting documents in English. Applications will undergo an administrative check and evaluation by a Selection Committee composed of the initiative representatives. Shortlisted candidates will be evaluated on various criteria, including communication effectiveness and public speaking skills. Thedeadline for submitting applications is February 29th, 2024. RAISEAfrica is committed to promoting gender balance in participant selection, and women applicants are highly encouraged to apply.
For more information and application inquiries, please contact [email protected].
