Now Open: RAISEAfrica – Renewables Accelerators for Innovative Startups and Entrepreneurs in Africa

RES4Africa Foundation is excited to announce the launch of RAISEAfrica – Renewables Accelerators for Innovative Startups and Entrepreneurs in Africa – an initiative that aims to accelerate the growth of innovative startups and entrepreneurs in Africa’s renewable energy sector. 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 is committed to empowering young talents and visionaries to shape a sustainable future for the continent.

RAISEAfrica offers a comprehensive range of programs, including pre-acceleration and acceleration programs, tailored specifically for the renewable energy industry in Africa. This initiative is designed to support and amplify renewable energy-focused projects within the African startup ecosystem, providing a platform for young innovators to showcase their ideas. The focus areas encompass a wide range of sectors, such as Productive Uses of Energy, Water-Energy-Food Nexus, Circular Economy, Manufacturing, and Digitalization.

The Pre-Accelerator program is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs in the early stages of developing their business ideas, while the Accelerator program targets entrepreneurs who are seeking market validation and business expansion. We invite young innovators to submit their concrete and creative ideas, drawing inspiration from their existing experiences or ongoing projects. RAISEAfrica will select a minimum of three businesses to receive awards in the form of valuable services, including mentoring & coaching, networking opportunities, enhanced visibility, fundraising support, and various other activities.

ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for the pre-accelerator and accelerator programs, applicants must meet specific 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.

APPLICATION

To apply, candidates are required to fill out the online application forms in English and submit necessary documents. The Selection Committee, consisting of representatives from the initiative, will then conduct an administrative check and evaluation.

Shortlisted applicants will be assessed based on different criteria, such as their communication skills and ability to speak in public. Remember, the deadline for submitting applications is February 29th, 2024. At RAISEAfrica, we strongly encourage women to apply as we are dedicated to promoting gender balance among participants.

If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out to [email protected]. Visit the program site for details. Here are the application forms:
1. Pre-Accelerator Form
2. Accelerator Form
3. Concept Note & Agenda