The USADF is thrilled to announce the solicitation of proposals for the USADF Off-Grid Energy Challenge, inviting eligible African off-grid energy companies to submit their proposals. Chosen enterprises will have the opportunity to secure funding through grant capital, potentially receiving support of up to $250,000.
The USADF Off-Grid Energy Challenge is an initiative aimed at supporting and empowering African off-grid energy companies that provide innovative solutions to address energy access challenges across the continent. This challenge, organized by the U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF), seeks to identify and support enterprises that offer sustainable and scalable off-grid energy solutions.
Through this challenge, USADF invites eligible African-based companies operating in the off-grid energy sector to submit proposals showcasing their innovative approaches. These approaches typically revolve around renewable energy sources, clean technologies, and innovative business models that improve access to electricity in underserved communities.
Selected enterprises stand the chance to receive crucial funding in the form of grant capital, offering financial support of up to $250,000. This financial assistance is instrumental in enabling these businesses to scale their operations, expand their reach, and further develop their off-grid energy solutions.
Additionally, the USADF Off-Grid Energy Challenge goes beyond financial support. It often includes capacity-building opportunities, technical assistance, mentorship, and networking platforms to help chosen enterprises enhance their capabilities, strengthen their business models, and contribute to socio-economic development in the regions they serve.
By supporting these innovative energy solutions, the challenge aims to not only address energy poverty but also promote sustainable development, economic growth, and job creation across Africa. The USADF Off-Grid Energy Challenge plays a pivotal role in driving positive change by leveraging innovation and entrepreneurship to improve energy access and empower communities.
The United States African Development Foundation (USADF) is an independent U.S. government agency dedicated to promoting development and economic growth in Africa. Established in 1980, USADF operates with a unique approach, focusing on supporting local enterprises, grassroots organizations, and underserved communities across the African continent.
USADF’s primary mission centers on fostering pathways to sustainable development by providing seed capital, technical assistance, and support to African-led initiatives. The foundation prioritizes grassroots solutions and invests in entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), cooperatives, and community-based organizations that have the potential to create impactful and scalable solutions for economic growth and development.
Through its funding programs and initiatives, USADF aims to empower local innovators and entrepreneurs, especially those in marginalized or underserved areas. The foundation focuses on sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, small-scale manufacturing, technology, and entrepreneurship, seeking to spur inclusive economic growth and create opportunities for employment and improved livelihoods.
USADF operates through a model that emphasizes collaboration, local ownership, and sustainability. It partners with local organizations, government agencies, private sector entities, and international development agencies to leverage resources, expertise, and networks, amplifying the impact of its interventions.
One of the distinctive aspects of USADF’s approach is its commitment to supporting initiatives at the grassroots level. By investing in local solutions and fostering entrepreneurship, the foundation contributes to building resilient communities, fostering innovation, and advancing economic empowerment across Africa.
Benefits
Winning applicants will receive:
- Grant capital up to $250,000 from USADF
- Access to intensive local technical assistance and governance support
Requirements For The USADF Off-Grid Energy Challenge
To be considered for the Challenge. applicants must be majority African-owned and -managed private companies and organizations (including non-profit and not-for-profit) registered and operating in any of these countries in Africa (Benin, Burundi, Céte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo (South Kivu), Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritania, Namibia, Africa, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia).
Method of Application
- All instructions to apply are included in the document labeled “RFP,” uploaded below.
- The application template for applicants to fill in is also uploaded below.
- Applicants must send the completed application template, as well as all required attachments, on or before January 31, 2024.
Please note that applications will be reviewed on a first come, first-serve basis, so it is advised that applicants submit their proposals as soon as possible.
Application Deadline: January 31, 2024.
For More Information,
