Catalytic Climate Funding Now Open: Apply for the Joint Innovation Facility (JIF)

Applications are open for a transformative opportunity designed to power African-led innovations in the climate-tech space. The Joint Innovation Facility (JIF) is now accepting submissions from dynamic African-led consortia eager to expand their impact across borders. With grant funding ranging between €100,000 and €250,000, this initiative aims to support scalable, tech-enabled solutions that address the climate crisis in both Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe.

This is a unique opening for trailblazers working on cutting-edge projects in areas such as blue economy technology, renewable energy, sustainable urban development, and intelligent transport systems. The call prioritizes projects that creatively apply frontier technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to strengthen climate resilience, adaptation, or mitigation strategies.

To qualify, applicants must form a consortium led by an African organization, with a minimum of two partner institutions from either Africa or Europe. Projects must demonstrate a solid pathway to market success, strong financial and operational structures, and a leadership team that includes at least 30% women. Additionally, all consortia must commit to contributing at least 20% in co-financing, with at least half of that portion being in cash.

Organizations based in one of the initiative’s 14 focus countries—Benin, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia—are eligible to lead or co-lead applications. Whether you’re a startup, a small and growing enterprise, a non-profit organization, an innovation accelerator, or a research-focused institution, this is your opportunity to take a bold step forward.

The JIF platform is being delivered through the upcoming AEDIB 2.0 initiative, with backing from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the European Union, and Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Implementation is supported by GIZ Kenya and HAUS kehittämiskeskus Oy, the Finnish Institute of Public Management.

The deadline to submit your proposal is 4 August 2025. Don’t miss your chance to scale up your climate-smart innovation and shape a sustainable future.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity