Deadline: September 19, 2025
The Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator Nairobi 2025 is an exciting opportunity for African founders building tech-enabled, sustainability-driven startups. Hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, this 8-week intensive programme is designed to equip founders with the skills, mentorship, and networks needed to scale solutions in key sectors such as agriculture, mobility, the built environment, and energy.
If your startup is tackling some of the most pressing challenges in Africa with innovation and impact, this accelerator could be the launchpad you need.
About the Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator Nairobi 2025
The Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator Nairobi 2025 is part of 500 Global’s broader Africa Innovation Strategy and is delivered in partnership with the Greentech Hub under the UNDP’s Timbuktoo initiative. The programme aims to accelerate the growth of seed-stage African startups addressing sustainability challenges with scalable, tech-enabled solutions.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator |
| Location | Nairobi, Kenya (Greentech Hub under UNDP’s Timbuktoo) |
| Dates | October 27 – December 19, 2025 |
| Format | 8 weeks (first 4 weeks in-person, final 4 weeks hybrid) |
| Focus Areas | Agriculture, mobility, built environment, energy |
| Eligibility | Seed-stage African startups with tech-enabled, sustainability-driven models |
| Fee | $35,000 per startup (excludes travel costs) |
| Deadlines | Priority: August 29, 2025; Final: September 19, 2025 |
| Benefits | Mentorship, ecosystem access, community-building, retreat |
| Equity Terms | Not specified (programme fee only) |
Programme Structure and Format
The accelerator is an 8-week intensive programme, running from October 27 to December 19, 2025.
- Weeks 1–4 (In-Person): Held in Nairobi at the Greentech Hub, offering immersive workshops, direct mentorship, and ecosystem networking.
- Weeks 5–8 (Hybrid): Remote sessions to continue learning, mentoring, and business development while allowing founders to focus on implementation in their own markets.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is ideal for seed-stage African startups that:
- Operate in agriculture, mobility, built environment, or energy sectors.
- Use technology as an enabler for scalable solutions.
- Have a strong focus on sustainability and measurable impact.
- Are looking for intensive guidance, regional and global networking opportunities, and a supportive community of peers.
Costs and Commitment
Each participating startup pays a programme fee of $35,000. This fee covers:
- One-on-one and group mentorship with sector experts.
- Access to tailored curriculum and growth-driven workshops.
- Networking with government bodies, corporates, and investors.
- In-person events, a retreat, and continued alumni support.
Note: Travel, accommodation, and other personal expenses are not included in the fee.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Priority Application Deadline: August 29, 2025 – applying early allows for faster review and feedback.
- Final Application Deadline: September 19, 2025 – no applications will be accepted after this date.
What You Gain from the Programme
- Tailored Mentorship – Access to industry leaders and experts who understand the sustainability landscape and African market realities.
- Ecosystem Access – Connections to local and global networks including investors, corporates, and government partners.
- Peer Learning Community – Collaborate with fellow founders through shared learning sessions, retreats, and networking events.
About 500 Global’s Africa Innovation Strategy
This accelerator is a flagship initiative under 500 Global’s Africa Innovation Strategy, which seeks to strengthen startup ecosystems through customised programmes, local partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives. The Nairobi programme represents a significant step towards advancing sustainable innovation across the continent.
How to Apply
Applications are currently open for the Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator Nairobi 2025.
- Apply Here: Click to Apply
- Read More About the Programme: Full Details on 500.co
Contact: For proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
