Deadline: August 29, 2025
The Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2025 is now accepting applications from African innovators and startups harnessing Earth Observation (EO) and space-based technologies to tackle real-world problems across the continent. With cash prizes, incubation support, access to premium satellite datasets, and cloud credits on offer, this annual innovation competition is a golden opportunity for startups focused on climate, agriculture, health, disaster risk, and more.
This blog post details everything you need to know to apply for the Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2025, including eligibility criteria, thematic focus, benefits, timelines, and how to submit your application successfully.
What is the Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2025?
The Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2025 (AEOC 2025) is a continent-wide innovation competition aimed at supporting early-stage African businesses that leverage Earth Observation and space-based data. Launched in 2016, the challenge connects EO-driven solutions with technical, financial, and mentorship support to address Africa’s most pressing development needs.
Whether your startup is working on climate monitoring, smart agriculture, disaster response, or health tech, this challenge is your chance to scale your idea with expert backing and powerful EO datasets.
Thematic Areas of Focus
Applicants must align their solution with one or more of the following focus areas:
- Climate Change
- Agriculture
- Disaster Risk Reduction
- Natural Resource Monitoring
- Sustainable Urban and Rural Development
- Healthcare
Additionally, climate change and navigation/positioning are considered cross-cutting themes, and the challenge encourages creative approaches to data collection, satellite imaging, and onboard processing.
Who is Eligible?
To participate in the Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2025, your business must meet the following requirements:
- Geography: Be based anywhere in Africa
- Stage: Early-stage, angel investor-ready
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL): Between TRL 8 and 9
- Business Readiness Level (BRL): Between BRL 1 and 3
Ideal applicants are businesses moving from pilot/prototype to product launch or early commercialisation.
Prizes and Benefits
Finalists and winners of AEOC 2025 will receive a comprehensive package of support, including:
- 💰 Cash prizes totalling up to USD 10,000, distributed among the top 3 teams
- 🚀 4-month virtual incubation programme including tailored business mentorship
- ☁️ Cloud credits via AWS Activate programme
- 🛰️ Access to EO datasets, including SecureWatch (Maxar), Planet Labs, and ESRI software tools
- 🧠 Technical and business advisory
- 🛡️ IP support services
- 📰 Media exposure and participation in global conferences
These benefits are designed to accelerate innovation, visibility, and market readiness.
Application Timeline
- Deadline: August 29, 2025 (Some sources mention August 30, 2025; applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid cut-off issues)
- Format: Virtual, with potential hybrid participation in Johannesburg
Application Process
- Ensure your solution applies Earth Observation data to one of the thematic areas.
- Confirm your startup’s TRL and BRL levels fall within the eligible range.
- Prepare a compelling proposal and pitch video (if required).
- Submit your application via the designated portal.
- Shortlisted teams will enter a business support programme before the final pitch.
Why the Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2025 Matters
This challenge isn’t just about winning cash—it’s about empowering African innovation ecosystems through the strategic use of space technologies. EO data can fuel smarter farming, climate resilience, urban planning, disease tracking, and more.
By joining the Africa Earth Observation Challenge 2025, you become part of a network that’s shaping the continent’s tech future and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Take Action
If your startup has a bold, EO-powered solution to an African challenge—this is your moment.
For more information about the programme structure, partners, and past cohorts, 👉 click here to read more
Need help with your proposal?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review services.
