Deadline: April 6, 2026
The GSMA Innovation Fund for Impactful AI is a competitive grant programme designed to support small and growing enterprises using artificial intelligence (AI) and mobile-enabled technologies to solve pressing socio-economic and climate challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
If you are building an AI-powered solution that improves lives in underserved communities, the GSMA Innovation Fund for Impactful AI offers not only financial support, but also technical assistance and ecosystem connections to help you scale sustainably.
About the GSMA Innovation Fund for Impactful AI
The programme is an initiative of GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association), with funding support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), UK Government.
The fund aims to:
- Accelerate the adoption of impact-driven AI solutions
- Support enterprises operating in LMICs
- Leverage mobile technology and emerging digital tools
- Deliver measurable impact for low-income and vulnerable populations
The programme recognises the transformative role of AI when combined with mobile connectivity, big data, and emerging technologies.
Funding Amount and Duration
Selected enterprises can receive:
- Grant funding between £100,000 and £250,000
- Project implementation period of approximately 15–18 months
Beyond funding, selected grantees benefit from structured venture support to strengthen both impact and commercial sustainability.
Non-Financial Support and Technical Assistance
In addition to grant capital, the programme provides:
- Technical mentorship and advisory support
- Innovation bootcamps and learning workshops
- Ecosystem building and peer-learning opportunities
- Support to engage mobile network operators (MNOs)
- Investor readiness and partnership facilitation
This blended approach ensures that solutions are not only innovative but scalable and commercially viable.
Who Can Apply?
The fund targets:
- For-profit small and growing enterprises
- Organisations operating in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)
- Businesses leveraging AI and emerging technologies such as:
- Machine learning
- Generative AI
- Mobile big data
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Computer vision
- Blockchain (where relevant)
Applicants must demonstrate:
- A clear development or climate impact focus
- Strong alignment with local needs
- A scalable and sustainable business model
- Measurable impact outcomes
The programme strongly encourages applications from:
- Female-founded or female-led enterprises
- Organisations working closely with local ecosystem partners
Priority Impact Areas
Projects supported under the GSMA Innovation Fund for Impactful AI may operate across various sectors, including but not limited to:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Climate adaptation and resilience
- Financial inclusion
- Agriculture
- Livelihood development
Solutions must clearly demonstrate how AI integration improves service delivery, efficiency, accessibility, or affordability for underserved populations.
Geographic Focus
The programme supports enterprises operating in LMICs across:
- Africa
- South Asia
- Southeast Asia
- The Pacific
This includes countries such as Nigeria and other developing markets where AI-enabled mobile solutions can deliver transformative impact.
Application Timeline
For the most recent funding round:
- Applications opened in early 2026
- Deadline: 6 April 2026 (23:59 GMT)
Prospective applicants are encouraged to monitor future calls for proposals from the GSMA Innovation Fund for Impactful AI.
Why This Fund Matters
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping global industries. However, without intentional support, LMIC-based innovators risk being left behind. The GSMA Innovation Fund for Impactful AI bridges this gap by combining grant funding, ecosystem access, and structured venture support.
By focusing on inclusive, locally driven AI innovation, the fund ensures technology works for communities that need it most.
How to Apply
Need Support With Your Proposal?
If you are planning to apply and require assistance with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
