Helping African innovators to develop gender-responsive, environmentally friendly and research-based solutions

Context

The term ‘just transition’ refers to the process of moving towards climate-friendly ways of living and doing business. This requires innovation in every sector of the economy, above all to reduce CO2 emissions, conserve resources and develop climate-friendly technologies.

As yet, however, the enormous potential of African start-ups in the area of climate tech has not been fully harnessed. The number of successful start-ups is relatively low compared with other sectors, and there are too few investable solutions. It takes too long to convert research findings into usable solutions. Another problem is that gender inequality is even more pronounced in the climate tech industry than in other sectors.

When it comes to talks on climate, Africa is usually seen as a recipient of innovative solutions rather than a producer. This can deprive African countries of important opportunities to position themselves as key players in the field of climate adaptation.

Objective

Africa's technology sector is able to implement climate-friendly, gender-equitable and research-based innovations more efficiently.

Approach

The project operates in three priority areas:

1. Improving the quality of climate tech solutions. The project offers advice and funding to help build partnerships between start-ups, intermediaries, and the academic sector.
2. Promoting the work of innovation support organisations (ISOs). The advice and financial support available through the project are aimed at supporting ISOs to collaborate across borders, establish and expand support programmes for start-ups in the climate tech sector and promote women-run businesses.
3. Facilitating access to capital for start-ups. To meet this objective, the project works with a range of funders to ensure that start-ups have better access to appropriate financing solutions as they grow. This approach also aims to reduce the barriers to attracting investment to women-run business. Through its advisory work and grants, the project supports training programmes for funders in areas such as gender-equitable and climate investment.

Last update: August 2024