OceanHub Africa, in partnership with The Coca-Cola Foundation, is inviting applications for a pan-African initiative supporting early-stage, science-driven solutions that address plastic waste and advance circular economy models across the continent.

With Africa’s solid waste generation expected to surpass 200 million tonnes annually by 2030, plastic pollution has become a growing threat to coastal and urban ecosystems, public health, and livelihoods. While innovative research solutions exist, many struggle to move beyond the laboratory stage. This initiative is designed to help bridge that gap by transforming promising ideas into market-ready ventures.

The programme will provide up to USD 120,000 in venture-building support, alongside technical mentorship and business development assistance, to selected African-led innovations focused on plastic circularity.

Programme Objectives

The initiative aims to:

• Support the transition of research-based concepts into viable, scalable businesses

• Provide catalytic funding to de-risk early development and piloting

• Strengthen technical and commercial capacity through tailored mentorship

• Connect innovators with corporate partners, investors, and market networks

Funding Structure

The programme offers staged financial support to support growth and reduce risk:

• Grant 1 (Capital Support): Up to USD 20,000 per venture for essential equipment and infrastructure

• Grant 2 (Operations & Piloting): Up to USD 20,000 for selected high-performing ventures to test solutions in real-world settings

• Grant 3 (Commercialisation): A repayable grant of up to USD 80,000 for one venture ready to scale its validated model

Programme Timeline

• Call Opens: 17 December 2025

• Application Deadline: 15 February 2026

• Evaluation Period: February 2026

• Venture Building Phase: March – December 2026 (hybrid format)

• Acceleration Review: April 2026

• Ongoing: Documentation and visibility through partner and programme channels

Expected Impact

The initiative is designed to deliver measurable outcomes, including:

• Diverting or recycling an estimated 490 tonnes of plastic waste

• Supporting the creation of over 150 sustainable livelihoods

• Demonstrating commercially viable circular economy business models

• Developing scalable solutions adaptable across African regions

Applicants must submit an online application and a video pitch (up to 5 minutes) outlining their solution and impact.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 15 February 2026 (23:59 SAST).

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