Selected startups will receive equity‑free funding of up to USD 100,000, provided in cryptocurrency or fiat, which can be used to support piloting, deployment, and scaling of their blockchain solutions. This funding allows innovators to advance their projects without giving up ownership of their companies, ensuring that founders retain full control while accessing critical financial support to develop solutions that can have a tangible social impact.

In addition to financial support, participants will benefit from tailored technical mentorship and advisory services throughout the investment period. Mentors will work closely with startups to refine product design, strengthen implementation strategies, evaluate impact, and troubleshoot technical challenges. This guidance ensures that solutions are robust, scalable, and aligned with real-world needs, particularly in UNICEF programme countries.

Startups will also gain access to UNICEF’s global network of partners, country offices, and innovation ecosystems, which provides opportunities to pilot solutions in real-world contexts and collaborate with other innovators and institutions. This exposure enhances professional credibility and visibility within the international technology and social impact communities. Moreover, participants will receive support in areas such as regulatory guidance, digital security, and user adoption strategies, helping them navigate complex operational challenges and maximize the effectiveness of their solutions.

Finally, the programme fosters community and peer learning by connecting founders with other startups tackling similar challenges. This network of innovators promotes knowledge exchange, collaboration, and ongoing professional development, ensuring that participants are part of a vibrant, global ecosystem of frontier technology solutions aimed at improving the lives of children and their communities.

To be eligible for this funding opportunity, applicants must be a for-profit company legally registered in a UNICEF programme country, which includes most low- and middle-income countries where UNICEF has ongoing operations. Startups must have a working prototype of a blockchain-based solution that demonstrates practical applicability and potential for social impact, particularly in areas affecting children and their communities. The solution must also be open-source or committed to being open-sourced, ensuring that the technology can be adapted and utilized by others to maximize positive outcomes.

Applicants should have a founding team with relevant experience in technology, blockchain, or social impact, and must be committed to fully participating in the program, including mentorship sessions, pilot implementation, and reporting requirements. While there is no strict age or gender requirement, startups led by young founders or women are strongly encouraged to apply. The programme prioritizes ventures that are scalable, innovative, and capable of addressing pressing social challenges in UNICEF programme countries.

Additionally, candidates must be able to demonstrate a clear vision for deploying their solution in real-world contexts, including plans for user adoption, impact measurement, and sustainability. Applicants should be prepared to collaborate with UNICEF teams and other stakeholders to ensure that their solution aligns with UNICEF’s mission to improve the lives of children through innovative technologies.

Open globally

Click the official link below to apply for this opportunity