The ClimaFii Alliance 2026 is calling for applications from early-stage climate enterprises in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering up to USD 85,000 in funding and tailored venture support to scale clean energy and climate solutions.
ClimaFii Alliance 2026: Funding and Venture Support for Climate Enterprises in Sub-Saharan Africa
The ClimaFii Alliance 2026 has officially announced its call for applications, presenting a major opportunity for early-stage climate enterprises across Sub-Saharan Africa. With funding of up to USD 85,000 and access to hands-on venture support, the programme is designed to help innovative businesses scale climate-positive solutions that benefit micro and small entrepreneurs.
The initiative is led by a strong coalition of global development and impact-focused organisations, including Shell Foundation, Accion, BFA Global, and Social Ventures. Together, they aim to unlock climate finance for enterprises that are building practical, market-ready solutions to reduce emissions, improve productivity, and strengthen climate resilience.
About the ClimaFii Alliance
The ClimaFii Alliance is a competitive support programme focused on accelerating the growth of climate enterprises that serve micro and small enterprises (MSEs). These businesses play a critical role in African economies but are often the most vulnerable to climate shocks and energy insecurity.
By supporting climate-focused startups and SMEs, the Alliance seeks to bridge the gap between innovation and scale—helping enterprises move from early traction to sustainable growth while delivering measurable environmental and social impact.
Focus Areas and Solutions
The 2026 programme targets enterprises offering market-ready solutions in the following priority areas:
- Clean Energy: Affordable and reliable energy solutions that improve productivity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels
- Electric Mobility: Technologies and services that enable low-emission transportation for small businesses and entrepreneurs
- Emission Reduction Solutions: Innovations that help micro and small enterprises lower their carbon footprint while improving operational efficiency
These solutions are expected to directly support income generation, climate resilience, and long-term sustainability for entrepreneurs operating at the grassroots level.
Who Can Apply?
The ClimaFii Alliance 2026 is open to registered startups and SMEs that meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be headquartered in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Offer a market-ready climate solution aligned with clean energy, electric mobility, or emission reduction
- Demonstrate clear market traction, such as active customers or pilot deployments
- Show the capacity to reach at least 2,000 microentrepreneurs within the first year of support
- Have at least one co-founder based in Africa
The programme places a strong emphasis on inclusive entrepreneurship, and women-led and women-owned businesses are strongly encouraged to apply.
Funding and Venture Support
Selected ventures will receive up to USD 85,000 in a combination of cash and in-kind catalytic support. Beyond funding, the programme offers deep, tailored assistance designed to strengthen each venture’s long-term viability and investment readiness.
Support includes:
- Business model refinement to improve scalability and sustainability
- Customer base expansion strategies to accelerate market growth
- Venture-building and technical assistance tailored to each enterprise’s needs
- Partnership opportunities with financial service providers
- Strategic support to unlock future financing, including investor connections and fundraising preparation
This holistic approach ensures that participating enterprises are not only funded but also equipped with the tools and partnerships needed to scale effectively.
Geographic Scope
The ClimaFii Alliance 2026 is open to enterprises based in all Sub-Saharan African countries, reflecting the programme’s commitment to inclusive regional growth and climate action across diverse markets.
Key Dates to Note
- Applications open: 10 December 2025
- Application deadline: 16 January 2026
Given the competitive nature of the programme, early preparation and timely submission are strongly advised.
Why the ClimaFii Alliance Matters
Climate change poses a disproportionate risk to micro and small entrepreneurs across Africa, yet these same businesses are central to economic growth and job creation. The ClimaFii Alliance addresses this challenge by supporting enterprises that deliver climate solutions where they are needed most.
By combining catalytic funding with hands-on venture support, the programme helps climate enterprises overcome early-stage barriers, scale their impact, and contribute to a more resilient, low-carbon future for Sub-Saharan Africa.
Looking Ahead
The ClimaFii Alliance 2026 represents a powerful opportunity for climate-focused startups and SMEs ready to scale their solutions and deepen their impact. For enterprises working at the intersection of innovation, climate action, and inclusive economic growth, this programme offers not only funding, but a pathway to long-term sustainability and influence.
Eligible ventures are encouraged to prepare their applications and take advantage of this opportunity to become part of a growing ecosystem driving climate resilience across the continent.
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