Deadline: August 22, 2025
The ACT Foundation Changemakers Innovation Challenge 2025 is now open for applications, offering young African innovators an incredible opportunity to scale their technology-driven social solutions. Designed to support youth-led projects that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the challenge empowers changemakers across Africa with funding, technical support, and mentorship.
If you are a young leader building impactful, innovative, and tech-enabled solutions, this programme could be the game-changer you have been waiting for.
About the ACT Foundation Changemakers Innovation Challenge 2025
The Changemakers Innovation Challenge is an annual programme powered by the ACT Foundation to recognise and support youth-led social innovations across Africa. The initiative targets cutting-edge ideas in health, agriculture, education, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and beyond, provided they contribute directly to solving social problems.
Since its inception, the challenge has served as a launchpad for innovators who are using creativity and technology to make measurable differences in their communities. In 2025, the Foundation continues its mission to spotlight and accelerate young leaders who are shaping the continent’s future.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ACT Foundation Changemakers Innovation Challenge 2025, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be an African citizen residing in any African country.
- Be youth-led, with the founder or team lead aged 18–25 years.
- Present a technology-driven solution that has already been tested with beneficiaries. Evidence such as videos, photos, or media articles must be provided.
- Ensure the solution aligns with one or more Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Note: Past winners of the Changemakers Innovation Challenge are not eligible to apply.
Application Timeline
- Applications Opened: August 4, 2025
- Application Deadline: August 22, 2025 (no late entries will be accepted)
- Pitching Event & Winners’ Selection: October 8, 2025
Awards and Benefits
Selected participants in the ACT Foundation Changemakers Innovation Challenge 2025 stand to gain the following:
- Grant Funding: The top 4 winners will receive financial support to scale their innovative solutions.
- Technical Support: This may include provision of software, hardware, or specialised capacity-building training.
- Visibility & Networking: Finalists will showcase their solutions at the October 8 pitch event, connecting with mentors, funders, and global changemakers.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be judged according to these weighted categories:
- Innovation & Creativity – 30%
- Use of Technology – 20%
- Impact (number and quality of beneficiaries) – 20%
- Scalability & Sustainability – 15%
- Clarity of Vision & Leadership – 15%
Why You Should Apply
The ACT Foundation Changemakers Innovation Challenge 2025 is more than a grant opportunity. It is a platform to:
- Gain recognition for your innovative work.
- Access resources and mentorship to strengthen your solution.
- Compete among Africa’s most inspiring young changemakers.
- Position your initiative for long-term sustainability and growth.
Quick Recap
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Window | August 4 – August 22, 2025 |
| Eligibility | African youth (18–25 years old) |
| Focus Areas | Tech-driven, SDG-aligned solutions |
| Evidence Required | Proof of impact (photos, videos, media) |
| Winners | Top 4 receive grants + support |
| Pitch Event | October 8, 2025 |
| Judging Criteria | Innovation, Tech, Impact, Scalability, Leadership |
Final Thoughts
If you are a young African innovator determined to use technology to drive social change, this is your chance to showcase your idea on a continental stage. Prepare your strongest application, demonstrate evidence of impact, and get ready for the October 8 pitch.
For guidance on proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
