Deadline: November 10, 2025
The Challenger Digital & Green Innovation Acceleration Programme 2025 is now open for applications. This transformative initiative is designed to support early-stage, for-profit startups that are leveraging digital technology to solve pressing environmental and sustainability challenges. Startups operating in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda are invited to apply for this dynamic opportunity to accelerate their growth, strengthen their innovation capacity, and access regional and global markets.
The Challenger Digital & Green Innovation Acceleration Programme 2025 provides a comprehensive platform for entrepreneurs working on digital solutions that foster climate resilience, circular economy innovation, renewable energy, and sustainable economic development across Africa.
About the Opportunity
The programme seeks to identify and support early-stage startups developing digital solutions that address environmental sustainability and green innovation challenges. It aims to accelerate businesses that combine technology with sustainability-driven goals to create scalable impact.
Startups selected for this acceleration journey will benefit from expert mentorship, investor readiness support, business development opportunities, and increased visibility in both local and international markets.
The initiative is committed to driving the transition towards a sustainable, inclusive, and digital economy by empowering innovative entrepreneurs across key sectors.
Focus Areas
The programme targets solutions that address one or more of the following areas:
- Climate-Smart Agriculture and Food Systems – Innovations enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience.
- Renewable Energy and Clean Technologies – Solutions promoting affordable and clean energy access.
- Circular Economy and Waste Management – Technologies reducing waste and promoting recycling and reuse.
- Water Management and Conservation – Innovations improving water efficiency and access.
- Green Mobility and Logistics – Sustainable transport and logistics systems.
- Digital Financial Inclusion and Green Finance – Digital platforms that expand access to sustainable financial services.
- Environmental Data and Citizen Engagement – Digital tools that enhance environmental awareness, monitoring, and participation.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Challenger Digital & Green Innovation Acceleration Programme 2025, startups must meet the following requirements:
- Be registered and operational in Kenya, Ethiopia, or Uganda.
- Be a for-profit early-stage business with a minimum viable product (MVP) or at the early-revenue stage.
- Have at least two active co-founders committed to the business.
- Be developing digital solutions that contribute to environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, or circular innovation.
- Demonstrate growth potential, market traction, and clear business viability.
- Preference will be given to youth-led and women-led enterprises that align with the programme’s inclusion goals.
Benefits
Selected startups will gain access to a robust acceleration programme offering:
- Intensive business development and acceleration support.
- Tailored mentorship and coaching from seasoned professionals.
- Investor readiness training and connections to potential investors.
- Enhanced market exposure and opportunities for partnerships.
- Access to seed funding and regional or international visibility.
- Networking with fellow innovators, sustainability leaders, and ecosystem enablers.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 10 November 2025
Applicants are encouraged to complete their submissions well before the deadline to ensure successful participation in the selection process.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible startups can apply through the official application portal. Ensure that your application clearly highlights your digital innovation, sustainability impact, and growth potential.
Selection Process
Applications will be carefully reviewed based on innovation, scalability, sustainability impact, and team strength. Shortlisted startups will be invited to participate in a structured acceleration process designed to strengthen their business models and position them for long-term success.
Additional Information
The programme is highly competitive and focuses on identifying startups that combine digital transformation with environmental impact. It serves as a platform for visionary entrepreneurs who are redefining how technology contributes to a greener, more resilient future.
Read More
To learn more about the Challenger Digital & Green Innovation Acceleration Programme 2025, including detailed programme objectives and structure:
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
