Deadline: July 25, 2025
Are you a student passionate about environmental sustainability, social impact, or corporate governance? The ESG Africa Student Innovation Competition 2025 is your chance to shine. As part of the prestigious Sustainability & ESG Africa Conference & Expo (SEACon), this pan-African competition invites university students to pitch innovative, ESG-driven ideas that can help shape a sustainable future for Africa.
What is the ESG Africa Student Innovation Competition?
The ESG Africa Student Innovation Competition 2025 is designed to empower students aged 30 and below, enrolled in accredited African universities, to develop and present solutions aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities. The initiative not only fosters innovation but also connects aspiring changemakers with key stakeholders at the ESG Africa Conference.
Competition Timeline & Structure
The competition is divided into two phases, offering students a chance to gradually build and present their ideas.
Phase 1 – Abstract Submission
- Deadline: 25 July 2025
- What to Submit: A one-page PDF abstract of your ESG-focused innovation.
- How to Submit: Email your abstract to hannelie@esgafricaconference.com.
- Apply here: Submit your abstract
Phase 2 – Full Essay Submission (For Finalists)
- Finalists Announced: 28 August 2025
- Essay Deadline: 25 September 2025
- Word Count: 2,000–3,000 words
- Presentation: Finalists will pitch their ideas live on 16 October 2025 at SEACon in Sandton, South Africa.
Eligible Themes
Applicants can focus on any of the following ESG-aligned innovation themes:
- Building an ESG-Conscious Culture
- Environmentally & Socially Conscious Education
- Digital & Tech Innovations for Sustainability
- Sustainable Supply Chains and Ethical Sourcing
- Social Entrepreneurship and ESG Impact
- Resilient Urban Infrastructure and Design
- Circular Economy: Turning Waste into Wealth
- Ecosystem Regeneration and Nature-Positive Solutions
Judging Criteria
Submissions will be assessed based on:
- Creativity and Innovation
- Feasibility and Practicality
- Clarity of Presentation
- Potential Impact
- Relevance to ESG Principles
Prizes and Opportunities
The ESG Africa Student Innovation Competition 2025 offers incredible rewards for top entries:
- First Prize: R40,000 cash + live presentation slot at SEACon
- Second Place: R20,000 cash + full conference access
- All Finalists: Conference exposure, mentorship opportunities, and networking with industry experts
Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Abstract Submission Deadline | 25 July 2025 |
| Finalists Announcement | 28 August 2025 |
| Full Essay Deadline | 25 September 2025 |
| Winner Announcement | 15 October 2025 |
| Final Presentation at SEACon | 16 October 2025 |
How to Participate
- Draft and submit your one-page abstract by 25 July 2025 via email.
- If selected, prepare a 2,000–3,000-word essay by 25 September 2025.
- Finalists will travel to present at the ESG Africa Conference in Sandton, South Africa.
💡 Tips for a Winning Proposal
- Align your project with one or more of the listed themes.
- Focus on real-world applicability and measurable impact.
- Use concise and clear writing with solid structure.
- Highlight how your solution addresses ESG challenges effectively.
- Showcase originality and problem-solving capabilities.
Final Thoughts
The ESG Africa Student Innovation Competition 2025 is more than just a contest—it’s a platform to amplify student-led innovation across Africa. If you’re passionate about sustainability, governance, or social equity, don’t miss this opportunity to bring your vision to life and gain recognition on a continental stage.
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining and review.
