The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) seeks solutions in Rwanda that address food insecurity through strengthening food systems. The IGNITE Food Systems Challenge supports the scaling of innovative start-ups, small businesses, and cooperatives with commercially viable solutions to address gaps in the food system. Each selected venture will receive up to US$25 thousand in grant funding and 5 months of technical support. Applications close on 23 June 2024. IGNITE Food Systems Challenge
social enterprise
U.S. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal
The U.S. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) supports projects to assess, remove, and dispose of marine debris in and around coastal communities impacted by hurricanes and other episodic storm events. Eligible projects will reduce marine debris from coastal habitats and nearshore waters of coastal counties in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Puerto Rico, and South Carolina impacted by the 2022 hurricanes Fiona, Ian, Nicole, and Typhoon Merbok. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, government agencies, for-profit organizations, and educational institutions. The Fund will award approximately US$6 million in grants. The proposal deadline is 26 July 2024. Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund
Aquapreneur Innovation Initiative — Water Pollution Challenge
The Aquapreneur Innovation Initiative aims to find innovative solutions to conserve and restore freshwater ecosystems. Aquapreneur seeks high-potential solutions to prevent water pollution and reduce the environmental impacts of contaminated water. Solutions could include advanced filtration, the elimination of wastewater discharges, decision support systems to provide accurate and accessible data for measuring options for both the public and industries, as well as household water testing and filtration. Up to 10 innovators will each be eligible to receive CHF 175 thousand in co-financing. The challenge is open for submissions until 12 August 2024. Tackling Water Pollution Challenge
The Bridge International — Funding for Social Entrepreneurs
The Bridge International is a non-profit organization that works as an online crowdfunding platform for social entrepreneurs in Asia and Africa. Bridge International aims to support local entrepreneurs to be self-reliant and financially sustainable in their operations while they create social impact within the community. Applications for the recruiting program Global Bridging Fund (GBF) are open. Selected partners will benefit from seed funds up to US$5,000 as a 0% interest loan, connections to other social enterprises, and potential partnerships with global institutions and corporations. The deadline is 28 May 2024. Global Bridging Fund
United Nations Development Programme — ASEAN Blue Innovation Challenge
The United Nations Development Program aims to foster the development of the blue economy in ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste. The ASEAN Blue Innovation Challenge seeks to identify, finance, and support innovative solutions geared towards the conservation and sustainable management of marine ecosystems, coastal areas, and freshwater resources. Selected awardees receive US$40 thousand to pilot their innovations. The deadline is 31 May 2024. ASEAN Blue Innovation Challenge
Ashoka — Together Towards Tomorrow Challenge
The Together Towards Tomorrow Challenge invites changemakers worldwide with initiatives that unite people across generations to activate young people as leaders. Up to 12 winners will receive up to US$25 thousand. The Challenge is open to individuals driving impact in Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Bangladesh, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Nigeria, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Vietnam. The application deadline is 01 July 2024. Know more
Ashoka — African Climate Changemakers
The Young African Climate Changemakers Challenge calls on young people aged 16-25 across South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana to unleash their innovation in tackling climate change through ideas and existing initiatives. Applicants will receive access to information and learning sessions, networking opportunities, and access to online resources on social entrepreneurship. Ashoka awards US$1000 to 10 selected winners. Applications have to be submitted before 30 July 2024. Young African Climate Changemakers Challenge
SEED — Starter Program for Eco-Enterprises
SEED offers valuable resources and professional support to expand entrepreneurial ideas while learning from peers during interactive SEED Starter workshops. SEED Starter workshops consist of a team of 2-5 members that bring in a business idea for addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. Successful alumni are invited to apply for a SEED Grant for up to €1,000 which pays for resources required to establish the new enterprise. Eco-Entrepreneurs from Kenya are invited to apply for the next starter workshop. Applications have to be received by 15 April 2024. Link to current openings
SEED — Replicator Workshop for Eco-Enterprises
The SEED Replicator program offers incubation workshops to identify opportunities for enterprise creation and to guide aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners looking for partnerships to build an eco-inclusive business model. Successful alumni can apply for a SEED Grant which pays for your immediate necessary activities, measures, or machinery required to establish the new enterprise. SEED Replicator Program currently invites applications from entrepreneurs in India. Participation is free, although participants need to cover their transportation costs and accommodation. The application deadline is 26 February 2024. Click here to join
YALI Regional Leadership Center — Africa Regional Leaders Program
The YALI Africa Regional Leaders Program provides business and entrepreneurship training to young African leaders from Burundi, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. The program will teach young leaders (between 18 to 35 years) about modern leadership through coursework (in-person or online), a mentorship program, internship or community service, and report writing. Applicants have to be proficient in reading, writing, listening, and speaking English. Applications close on 01 March 2024. YALI Center East Africa