Jobs · Marketing · Illinois

AICCEES 2026 Clean Energy Innovation Challenge Opens Applications for African Innovators

The Innovation Bridge Portal · Energy, IL · Yesterday
MarketingFull-time

Focus Areas

  • Innovations in energy access and off-grid solutions
  • Renewable energy systems and productive use
  • Clean cooking technologies and fuels
  • Energy storage, smart grids and digital energy solutions
  • Sustainable mobility and clean transport
  • Waste-to-energy and circular economy solutions
  • Climate adaptation and resilience technologies
  • Hydrogen, biofuels and clean transition fuels

Who Can Apply?

  • African-led startups
  • Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
  • Scale-ups
  • Research institutions
  • University spin-offs
  • Innovators at prototype, pilot or early commercial stage

Programme Structure

  • Stage 1 – Call for Innovators: Applications submitted through the AICCEES online platform.
  • Stage 2 – Screening & Shortlisting: Applications undergo an independent technical review, with 10–15 finalists selected.
  • Stage 3 – Mentorship Bootcamp: Shortlisted Innovators receive mentorship covering pitch development, market readiness, business models, and impact models.
  • Stage 4 – Live Pitch Session: Finalists present 5-minute pitches followed by Q&A during the Clean Energy Business Innovation and Mentorship Session at AICCEES 2026.

Awards & Benefits

  • Proof-of-concept or seed funding support
  • Sponsored incubation or accelerator placements
  • Business mentorship and advisory support
  • Investor introductions and partnership opportunities
  • Media exposure and conference recognition
  • Inclusion in the AICCEES Innovation Showcase
  • Publishing of intellectual property

Important Dates

  • Applications Open: 1 April 2026
  • Shortlisting: 31 August 2026
  • Mentorship Bootcamp: 1–20 September 2026
  • Live Pitch Session: 24–25 September 2026

Eligible Countries

  • Applications are open to innovators across Africa.

Website Link

Visit the official website.

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