The Digital Energy Challenge for start-ups is an annual initiative that rewards 5 to 8 startups for their innovative digital projects aimed at enhancing energy access and grid services across Africa

Start-up projects must align with one of the following thematic areas:

Universal electricity access and mini-grids
Efficient grid management
Resilience and decarbonisation of power systems

Benefits for Challenge Winners:

Successful applicants will receive:

Financial support of up to €150K, along with technical assistance
Participation in a joint boot camp led by cross-sectorial experts
Widespread communication campaigns piloted by AFD for project visibility

Eligibility Criteria for Start-ups:

Start-ups must meet the following criteria:

Founded less than 10 years ago
In the pre-seed/early-stage financing phase, with less than €1M funding raised
Annual turnover of less than €1M
Employ between 1 and 99 full-time employees

NGOs may apply under the Start-up category if the project meets specific criteria, such as being set up as a company branch or having a dedicated team and business plan focused on sustainability/profitability.