Young African entrepreneurs and renewable energy innovators now have a powerful opportunity to grow their ideas into scalable businesses. Applications are officially open for RAISEAfrica 2026 – Renewables Accelerators for Innovative Startups and Entrepreneurs in Africa.

Launched by the RES4Africa Foundation, the programme is designed to support the next generation of startups and entrepreneurs driving Africa’s clean energy future. Through expert guidance, funding opportunities, and access to industry leaders, RAISEAfrica 2026 helps innovators transform renewable energy ideas into real-world impact.

Implemented with the support of Enel Green Power and the European Investment Bank (EIB), and in collaboration with EY Foundation, EDP Renewables, CSIR, and SAICA, this initiative offers a tailored growth journey for selected participants.

Why RAISEAfrica 2026 Matters

Africa’s renewable energy sector continues to expand rapidly, creating space for bold entrepreneurs to solve pressing energy challenges. However, many founders need funding, mentorship, visibility, and strategic partnerships to scale successfully.

RAISEAfrica bridges that gap by giving young innovators direct access to tools, networks, and resources that can accelerate their businesses and increase their impact across the continent.

Benefits of RAISEAfrica 2026

Selected participants will receive access to a structured pre-acceleration and acceleration programme that includes:

Expert mentoring and personalized coaching
Networking with industry leaders and investors
International visibility and exposure
Fundraising support and investor readiness guidance
Connections with major players in the energy ecosystem
Opportunities to participate in global events

Funding Opportunities

Up to 6 startups or entrepreneurs will be selected for the programme.

Each selected participant receives:

Entry contribution of €3,000
Opportunity to compete for the Young Talent of the Year Award
Final prize ranging from €5,000 to €10,000

Who Can Apply for RAISEAfrica 2026?

To be eligible, applicants must:

Be between 18 and 35 years old
Be an African citizen or represent a startup registered in Africa
Develop renewable energy solutions for the African market
Demonstrate proficiency in English

Applicants with projects ranging from early-stage ideas to advanced startup models are welcome to apply.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

Innovation and originality of the solution
Relevance to Africa’s renewable energy market
Potential impact
Strength of business model
Scalability
Entrepreneur’s motivation and commitment

The programme also promotes gender balance and strongly encourages women entrepreneurs to apply.

Application Deadline

All applications must be submitted by:

May 17, 2026 – 11:59 PM CET

Late submissions may not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should complete the official application form and review the full call for applications through the official programme platform.

For inquiries: giovanni.formicola@res4africa.org

APPLY HERE.

For more information about this apportunity, click here.

Discover more fellowship opportunities, click here.

Final Thoughts

RAISEAfrica 2026 is more than an accelerator—it is a launchpad for Africa’s renewable energy future. If you are a young founder building solutions in clean energy, this is your chance to gain mentorship, funding, and access to influential networks that can take your startup to the next level.

Apply now and position your innovation at the center of Africa’s energy transformation.