This curated list of funding, fellowship, and acceleration opportunities is tailored to help these businesses thrive and expand their positive influence in the region, February 2024 edition.
The landscape of opportunities for impact businesses in Asia is more vibrant than ever. In a world increasingly focused on sustainable and socially responsible growth, impact businesses play a crucial role. This curated list of funding, fellowship, and acceleration opportunities is tailored to help these businesses thrive and expand their positive influence in the region.
RELEVANT SUSTAINABLE GOALS
The GSMA Innovation Fund for Humanitarian Challenges
As global humanitarian needs continue to rise, there is an increasing demand to respond with innovative, impactful and scalable solutions powered by mobile and digital technology. On 11 December, the GSMA opened the GSMA Innovation Fund for Humanitarian Challenges. The Fund will provide grants as well as additional non-financial and technical support to projects that leverage mobile and digital technology to pilot and scale solutions that address humanitarian challenges in low- and middle-income countries. The specific objective of this new Fund is to test innovative use cases, partnerships, and business models that can improve access to sustainable digital-enabled solutions for those who are affected by – or vulnerable to – humanitarian challenges.
Application Deadline: 12th February 2024
Sodexo global Accelerator Program
Sodexo has opened applications for its 2024 global Accelerator programme, an initiative aimed at boosting the collaboration between Sodexo and startups, a key force for Sodexo to have a finger on the pulse of the latest trends and disruptions in the service industry.
For startups, working with Sodexo is an opportunity to ‘accelerate’ their development by benefiting from experienced business mentors, decades of industry knowledge and a global client footprint. Selected startups will be primed to scale their business and work with Sodexo for the long-term, while contributing to its innovation process.
For this global edition, Sodexo is asking for applications in five key areas of focus:
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Data Analytics to improve the use of data across its client accounts and allow Sodexo to make sure their clients’ teams are communicating as effectively as possible, making data-informed decisions.
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Sustainability to focus on how to measure and assess carbon impact across activities and initiatives and create solutions that can help reduce carbon emissions across Sodexo’s services.
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Consumer Experience to explore solutions to increase the ease and accessibility of clients’ sites, improve the flexibility of their workforce and optimize resource utilization to deliver the best possible consumer experience. They wish to understand how they can capture the voice of their consumers seamlessly to ensure they are driving continuous improvement.
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Operational Efficiency to provide practical solutions that can streamline workflows, optimize resources, digitize and modernize processes.
- Wildcard to add value to Sodexo’s business and that of its clients.
Application ends on 25 February 2024.
The Second APAC Greenhouse Accelerator APAC – 2024 Sustainability Edition By PEPSICO
PepsiCo announced the launch of the second Greenhouse Accelerator program in Asia Pacific (APAC) region. Following the success of last year’s program, PepsiCo is looking to make an even greater impact on the food and beverage sector in the region by collaborating with and supporting entrepreneurs who are developing innovative solutions in sustainable agriculture, climate action, and the circular economy.
Applications for 2024 are officially open! We’re calling on APAC startups innovating in sustainable packaging, climate action, and sustainable agriculture to apply. Selection for shortlisted applicants will hinge on innovation, scalability, uniqueness, disruption potential, and a commitment to reducing emissions and enhancing circularity.
Each finalist is guaranteed a $20,000 USD grant, with the winner receiving an additional $100,000 USD.”
More information visit the website at greenhouseaccelerator.com/apac/ or PepsiCo’s LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/pepsicop.
Applications for the PEPSICO Greenhouse Accelerator Program : APAC Sustainability Edition 2024 will close on March 18, 2024.
COHORT 4 FOR CLIMATE TECH
For ClimateTech works with early-stage entrepreneurs and solo founders, some of whom will not yet have formed a legal entity. They are looking for pre-seed, meaning you may have raised money through grants but no significant amount from institutional investors. For ClimateTech is happy to have a conversation about other resources in their ecosystem which might be appropriate, or whether you might be a fit for the Scale For ClimateTech program!
Applicants can be located anywhere in the world but must have plans for how their solution can help New York State reach its climate goals as stated in the Climate Leadership and Protection Act.
Startups will be evaluated on the following criteria:
- The potential carbon equivalent reduction impact of the technology or service.
- The business opportunity makes sense, is substantial, and there is evidence of market interest.
- The founder or founding team is sharp, motivated, self-aware, and coachable
- The company is of an appropriate stage, and is positioned to benefit substantially from participation in the program.
- The startup product or service has a clear fit with the NYS ecosystem, in terms of having the opportunity for a presence, partnerships, or a market within the stage.
- The solution addresses and/or involves underserved communities in development or application.
The application is closed on 1 March 2024
The Ocean Community Empowerment and Nature
Ocean Community Empowerment and Nature (OCEAN) Grants Programme stands as a pivotal grants scheme dedicated to empowering local projects with the vision and capacity to foster enduring enhancements for both the marine environment and coastal communities globally.
Despite the profound potential of community-led initiatives to drive impactful change, such projects have historically grappled with a lack of adequate funding to bolster ocean health at the grassroots level. In response, the OCEAN Grants Programme steps in to offer essential financial support, aiming to catalyze long-term, beneficial transformations for marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
For Community Grants: Local, regional, or national small to medium-sized organizations are encouraged to apply for the Community Grant. Applicants will benefit from specialized application workshops, assistance from the OCEAN Helpdesk, and informative webinars. Grants can reach up to £250,000, with project durations not exceeding five years. The application process entails submitting a Concept Note followed by a full application upon invitation.
Closing date : 18 March 2024 22:59 GMT (23:59 BST)
For Partnership Grants: OCEAN welcomes applications from medium to large organizations with a solid history of impactful project execution. Grants range from £250,000 to £3 million, supporting initiatives up to five years. The selection process unfolds in two stages: an initial online application followed by an interview with the OCEAN Expert Committee.
Closing date: 2 April 2024, 22:59 GMT (23:59 BST)
The Bayer Foundation Women Empowerment Award
The Women Empowerment Award aims to empower and uplift female entrepreneurs, because women in the start-up world face significant challenges such as limited funding, discrimination, and a lack of networking opportunities. By granting a €25,000 cash prize, tailored coaching, networking opportunities, and participation in a global event, the award seeks to accelerate the growth and impact of these female-led enterprises.
The award seeks to support women entrepreneurs driving impactful solutions in the Global South region, specifically Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East. To qualify, applicants must centre their solutions around health, nutrition and their intersection with climate-related challenges. Additionally, the solutions should emphasise social or community impact. Applicants are encouraged to integrate this focus into their applications. Stand-alone climate-smart solutions will not be accepted.
To be eligible to apply for the Women Empowerment Award, please make sure you meet the below criteria:
1) Women business leaders:
The applicant must be a woman in a leadership position ((co)-founder or C-level) in the company. Other leadership positions in the organization may (can also) be filled by males.
2) Has a sustainable business/financing model:
Organisations of any legal entity type may apply, as long as there is a strong business mindset and the business is not dependent on grants/donations/subsidies/etc as a sole income stream.
3) Offers an impactful solution in health, nutrition, and/or climate-smart solutions in either field:
This includes but is not limited to solutions in food, agriculture, and water. Stand-alone climate-smart solutions will not be accepted, they must be related to health and nutrition.
4) Is creating a social or community impact:
Solutions should (aim to) be accessible to Low or Middle-Income Communities. Higher product/service prices before economies of scale are accepted.
5) Is driving impact in the Global South:
The business must drive its impact in low- and middle-income countries in Africa, Asia Pacific (excluding Australia & New Zealand), Latin America, or the Middle East. Business registration in the Global South is preferred.
6) Is revenue-generating and has received a maximum of one million USD in funding:
The business should have annual revenue between 0 USD and (to) 1 million USD.
7) Strong personal drive & commitment to impact:
The applicant should have a strong personal drive and commitment to social impact. We favour applicants who have had to overcome obstacles in life.
The applicant must be a woman in a leadership position ((co)-founder or C-level) in the company. Other leadership positions in the organization may (can also) be filled by males.
2) Has a sustainable business/financing model:
Organisations of any legal entity type may apply, as long as there is a strong business mindset and the business is not dependent on grants/donations/subsidies/etc as a sole income stream.
3) Offers an impactful solution in health, nutrition, and/or climate-smart solutions in either field:
This includes but is not limited to solutions in food, agriculture, and water. Stand-alone climate-smart solutions will not be accepted, they must be related to health and nutrition.
4) Is creating a social or community impact:
Solutions should (aim to) be accessible to Low or Middle-Income Communities. Higher product/service prices before economies of scale are accepted.
The business must drive its impact in low- and middle-income countries in Africa, Asia Pacific (excluding Australia & New Zealand), Latin America, or the Middle East. Business registration in the Global South is preferred.
6) Is revenue-generating and has received a maximum of one million USD in funding:
The business should have annual revenue between 0 USD and (to) 1 million USD.
7) Strong personal drive & commitment to impact:
The applicant should have a strong personal drive and commitment to social impact. We favour applicants who have had to overcome obstacles in life.
If you’re pioneering innovations in health, nutrition, or related climate-smart solutions, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply by 27 March 2024.
Call For Loan Proposals : Investing In Climate Smart Agriculture in Indonesia and Vietnam
Are you part of, or do you know, an organization in Indonesia or Vietnam that collaborates with or aids smallholder farmers in need of working capital or trade finance solutions? If so, Rabo Foundation encourages you to submit your proposal and spread the word about this opportunity within your networks.
Rabo Foundation is calling for applications from eligible organizations seeking financial backing. As an impact funding provider, their mission is global, striving for sustained positive economic, environmental, and social outcomes. Rabo Foundation empowers organizations that support smallholder farmers in developing countries by providing access to finance, knowledge, and networks, enhancing farmers’ independence and sustainable production practices.
Rabo Foundation offers two types of financing instruments for loan amounts between EUR 400,000 to EUR 1,000,000 in EUR or local currency in form of:
- Trade Finance: Revolving loan facility providing advances made on (export) sales contracts with a tenor of maximum 24 months (Indonesia only).
- Working Capital: Loan facility up to 24 months for working capital purposes
Application Deadline: 31 March 2024
The 2024 Global Challenges MIT Solve
MIT Solve, an MIT initiative, underscores the importance of fresh perspectives and innovative solutions for a sustainable and equitable future. It recently announced the 2024 Global Challenges and the Indigenous Communities Fellowship to identify and amplify groundbreaking ideas.
Solve is calling on global innovators to propose solutions to this year’s Global Challenges by April 18. The focus is on leveraging technology creatively and fairly to enhance inclusive learning, combat and adapt to climate change, boost healthcare access, foster peaceful and prosperous economies, and empower Indigenous communities.
Available funding for Solvers and Fellows includes:
- A $10,000 award from MIT Solve to each selected Solver and Fellow.
- The GM Prize, by General Motors, for initiatives fostering smart, safe, and sustainable communities, chosen from specific 2024 challenges.
- The GSR Foundation Prize for tech-driven solutions addressing community issues, particularly those improving financial inclusion and education.
- The Morgridge Family Foundation AI Innovation Prize for AI-driven solutions sparking significant change, applicable across all 2024 challenges.
- The AI for Humanity Prize, by The Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, for projects using data science, AI, or machine learning for societal benefit.
- The Prince Albert II of Monaco Ocean Innovation Prize for innovations benefiting oceans, coasts, and the blue economy, linked to the climate challenge.
Application Deadline: 18 April 2024
GLOBAL INNOVATION FUND
Global Innovation Fund provides funds for innovation or projects that can address important development problems. The Global Innovation Fund (GIF) is renowned for its commitment to funding innovative solutions and projects that are poised to address significant development challenges. GIF is dedicated to identifying and supporting innovations that have the potential to significantly improve the lives of millions living in poverty.
GIF holds the belief that groundbreaking solutions capable of addressing development problems more efficiently than existing approaches can originate from any individual, anywhere in the world. This perspective underpins its approach to sourcing and supporting innovative ideas.
As such, GIF welcomes applications from all sectors within any developing country. The fund is accessible to a wide range of organizations, including social enterprises, for-profit companies, non-profit organizations, government agencies, international organizations, and research institutions from any country. It is advised that individual innovators, entrepreneurs, or researchers seek to apply through an organization with which they are affiliated.
Pioneer Facility, powered by Nexus for Development
Nexus for Development offers an impact fund for SMEs engaged in low-carbon, clean water, energy, and waste management projects in Asia. Eligible and scalable SMEs can apply for up to $500,000 in debt financing through the Pioneer Facility fund.
To be eligible for the Pioneer Facility loan, your social enterprise must meet all the following requirements:
1. Services and Technology
Offer solutions/ technologies in clean water, energy, sanitation, waste management, sustainable agriculture; examples include but not limited to clean cooking, solar, biogas digesters, water purification, waste-to-energy, biochar
2. Geography
Operating in Southeast Asia
3. Impact
Directly benefit low-income and underserved communities, able to demonstrate social, environmental as well as gender lens impact
Directly benefit low-income and underserved communities, able to demonstrate social, environmental as well as gender lens impact
4. Business Stage
Revenue generating, growth phase with a clear business plan, a track record of 2+ years and ready to scale
Revenue generating, growth phase with a clear business plan, a track record of 2+ years and ready to scale
Applications are reviewed year round, The DD process will take approximately 2-3 months depending on the size of the loan request.
Southeast Asian Ocean Impact Film Grant
Calling all Southeast Asian filmmakers! Applications are now open for our newly launched Southeast Asian Ocean Impact Film Grant!
Embracing the transformative power of storytelling to heighten awareness and spur action for ocean preservation, Coastal Natives has established a dedicated fund to support impactful ocean narratives. This grant, offering up to USD 10,000, is available to both emerging and established filmmakers with a deep commitment to environmental conservation. It’s an opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of the region’s cultures, ecosystems, and the vital link between humanity and the ocean.
Simply refer to Coastal Native’s application pack for instructions and we will get back to you with feedback. Be prepared to share your story concept, visual treatment and how your film aims to make a meaningful impact. Shortlisted applications will be reviewed by a panel of experts in filmmaking, film distribution and marine conservation. The selected filmmakers will not only receive financial support, but also mentorship and a chance to showcase your work at top-notch film festivals.
Applications are reviewed year round.
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