NEF 10th Africa Energy Innovation Challenge 2025 (USD10,000 cash prize grants)
The 10th Africa Energy Innovation Challenge (AEIC), organized by NEF, invites young African energy entrepreneurs to design or upscale innovative prototypes and solutions in areas such as social enterprise, agribusiness, fintech, and energy management systems using locally sourced resources. This year’s edition is dedicated to driving energy transition, fostering job creation, and opening pathways to quality employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people across the continent.
Innovation Track(s)
The innovation tracks for proposals under the AEIC are:
Track 1: Powering youth employment and job creation.
Track 2: Driving agribusiness growth and supporting social development.
Track 3: Promoting green local manufacturing and value addition.
Track 4: Advancing CNG for transport and electrified mobility.
Requirements:
- Open to young African professionals aged 18 to 35 years.
- Applications must be submitted by a team of at least three members.
- Each team must ensure gender balance with at least one woman and one man.
- Teams can be formed across different schools, institutions, companies, or countries.
- Individuals or teams are allowed to submit multiple applications.
Prizes & Recognitions:
Finalists and winners will be chosen by an independent panel of industry experts and development professionals from both public and private institutions. At least one winner will be selected from each track to receive grant prizes, while up to 20 shortlisted entries will be given complimentary passes to participate fully in the 2025 event. Beyond the awards, winners will also gain valuable opportunities that enhance their professional growth and impact. Winners of the competition get the opportunity to:
Grant Funding: Access cash prize grants of up to USD 10,000 to develop or scale your proposed solution.
Pitch Opportunity: Showcase your prototype model at the 2025 Nigeria Energy Forum through a poster presentation and short video.
Networking Access: Connect with fellow young innovators and engage with top decision-makers from government, international development, academia, and the private sector.
Capacity Building: Participate in business development workshops and receive tailored support from a start-up incubator.
