African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors, and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 28 April 2026. African Business Heroes
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United Nations — Climate Ambition Accelerator
The United Nations Global Compact invites companies participating in the UN Global Compact to join the 2026 Climate Ambition Accelerator. This six-month programme aims to (1) equip businesses with the knowledge and skills to set science-based emissions reduction targets aligned with the 1.5°C pathway and (2) support their journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Participants will benefit from global best practices, peer-to-peer learning, practical activities, capacity-building sessions, and on-demand training. The deadline for receiving applications is 30 April 2026. More information
Pulitzer Center — Africa Climate and Environment Micro Grants
The Pulitzer Center seeks local movements across Africa to promote climate and environmental action by supporting outreach initiatives that creatively integrate Pulitzer Center-supported journalism. Participants will receive micro grants to develop community engagement, dialogue forums, and awareness campaigns focused on climate and labor, rainforest protection, and ocean conservation. Grants range from US$2,500 to US$3,000. Eligibility extends to local organizations and movements targeting young professionals or communities across Africa. Applications close on 30 April 2026. ACE Micro Grants
African Plant Nutrition Institute — Plant Nutrition Scholar Award
The Plant Nutrition Scholar Award program offers ten awards of US$2,000 to students in the disciplines of soil science, agronomy, and horticultural or tree crop science with a focus on plant nutrition. Students must also be attending a degree-granting institution located in Africa. Candidates must be enrolled in a program of graduate study as of the application deadline of 30 April 2026. Plant Nutrition Scholar Award
Food 4 Future — Food Tech Innovation Awards
The Food Tech Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the most innovative proposals that offer a disruptive approach to Customer Experience or Management. The award has 6 categories: digitalization award for the food and beverage industry; best sustainability project; healthy food; the best innovation project for the packaging industry; the most innovative food tech startup; and the best automation and robotics solution. The FoodTech Innovation Awards are open to all companies, universities, business schools, researchers, journalists, and start-ups from all over the world. The proposal entry deadline is 06 April 2026. Food Tech Innovation Awards
Nature Research — Awards for Inspiring Women in Science
Nature Research seeks applications for the Nature Research Award. The Scientific Achievement Category celebrates an outstanding female early-career researcher, the Science Outreach Category will honor an individual or organization who has driven initiatives to encourage girls or young women to engage with STEM subjects around the world. The call closes on 08 April 2026. About the awards
Alstom Foundation — Project Support for NGOs
The Alstom Foundation invites project proposals from NGOs in eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region, South Asia, Europe, Eurasia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa (a full list of eligible countries is provided in the call for proposals). The Foundation supports a range of activities, including economic and social development, environmental protection, access to mobility, and access to energy and water. All projects must be submitted together with an Alstom employee acting in the role of the Project Promoter. The regular submission deadline is 10 April 2026. Click here
UN Environment — International Green Gown Awards
The International Green Gown Awards recognize exceptional climate sustainability initiatives being undertaken by universities and colleges. Students and universities are invited to submit solutions to the climate and environmental crisis. The Awards are open to any university or college across the world. The deadline for applications is 10 April 2026. Know more
Falling Walls Foundation — Global Call for Science Breakthroughs
The Falling Walls Foundation invites nominations and applications for its Global Call to identify the most significant scientific breakthroughs of the year. The program recognizes outstanding research and innovative projects across eight categories: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Social Sciences and Humanities, Art and Science, Women’s Impact, Science Start-ups, and Science Engagement. Eligible applicants include individual researchers, entrepreneurs, academic institutions, and organizations from any country. Laureates receive international visibility, travel and accommodation for the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin, and access to a global network of decision-makers. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2026. Global Call for Science Breakthroughs
Pulitzer Center — Africa Impact Seed Funding
The Pulitzer Center invites applications for the Africa Impact Seed Funding to support micro-scale education projects that address socio-ecological challenges. Open to K-12 teachers, lecturers, researchers, and student groups based in Africa, the program funds activities that utilize Pulitzer Center reporting on rainforests, oceans, and climate change. Projects must be implemented within a four-month period and demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants range from US$2,000 to US$3,500 to cover project-related costs and engagement activities. The deadline for applications is 16 April 2026. Africa Impact Seed Funding