Call for Applications: Distributed Renewable Energy in Agriculture Accelerator for social entrepreneurs and innovators (Phase 2)
Closing Date: 27 March 2026
Call for Applications: Distributed Renewable Energy in Agriculture Accelerator for social entrepreneurs and innovators (Phase 2)
Applications for the Distributed Renewable Energy in Agriculture Accelerator (Phase 2) are open until 27 March 2026. This is your opportunity to access venture-building support, ecosystem connections, and seed funding to scale your innovation.
Supported by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and implemented in partnership with E4Impact, this phase of the Towards Improving Livelihoods for Small-holder Farmers project will support 25 young innovators (18–35) across East Africa. In line with the celebration of women’s month, E4Impact strongly encourage solutions that uplift women and youth through renewable energy in agriculture.
Towards Improving Livelihoods for Small-Holder Farmers in East Africa
Closing the opportunity gap for young people in East Africa by scaling distributed renewable energy solutions for smallholder farmers.
About the Program
Building on the success of Phase 1, Ashoka East Africa, with the support of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation in partnership with E4Impact, is launching Phase 2 of its transformative program supporting innovators at the intersection of distributed renewable energy (DRE) and agriculture.
Mission
To encourage social entrepreneurs and innovators to scale DRE solutions that enhance productivity, resilience, and incomes for smallholder farmers across East Africa, while building a robust ecosystem of collaboration and systems-level change.
This 6-month program combines capacity building, strategic mentorship from leading social entrepreneurs and Ashoka Fellows, ecosystem connections, and competitive seed funding to accelerate impact.
Building on Proven Impact
Phase 1 of this project (June 2023 – Present) laid a strong foundation for transformative change:
- 140+ Innovators Mapped & Documented
- 12 Innovators Supported Through Intensive Capacity Building
- 4 Co-Created Cross-Country Projects Funded
1 New Ashoka Fellow Elected
What Phase 2 Offers
Expert-Led Workshops
Comprehensive workshops covering Scaling Strategies, Market & Financing, and Systems Change designed specifically for DRE solutions in agricultural value chains.
Strategic Mentorship
One-on-one guidance from leading experts including Ashoka Fellows and senior thought leaders who have successfully scaled social innovations in energy and agriculture.
Competitive Showcase
Present your strategy at the closing convening. The top strategies may receive seed funding to accelerate implementation.
Ecosystem Connections
Direct connections to investors, policymakers, technical partners, and off-takers. Plus, support to attend priority ecosystem events across East Africa.
Strategy Development
Develop a concrete systems change strategy with expert support tailored to your innovation’s unique needs and growth stage.
Visibility & Storytelling
Your innovation will be featured through strategic communications, social media, and ecosystem amplification to raise your profile and attract support.
Who Should Apply:
Passionate innovators and social entrepreneurs who are:
- Based in or operating in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, or Rwanda
- Offering a Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) solution (e.g., solar, biogas, mini-grids)
- Are applying solution within agricultural value chains, improving smallholder farmer productivity, resilience, or income
- Have a working prototype, pilot, or early implementation (no conceptual ideas), with an operational structure
- A founder or decision-maker in the venture
- Committed to full participation and engagement in the 6-month program
- Demonstrate strong ethical and social impact commitment
Selection & Due Diligence Timeline
- Selection & Due Diligence: 25 innovators selected through a comprehensive review process
April
Virtual Onboarding
- Virtual Onboarding: Meet your cohort and program mentors
- Kick-Off Convening: In-person event launches the program
April – September 2026
Capacity Building
- Capacity building:
- Horizontal Changemaking Curriculum
- Venture-Building Track
- Mentorship Track
September 2026
Closing Event
- Closing Event: Spotlight learning from the program
- Showcase: Present your strategies and compete for continuation funding
October 2026
Documentation & Reflection
- Documentation & Reflection: Capture learning, outcomes, and impact stories
The Partners
A global philanthropic organization dedicated to promoting a just, equitable, and sustainable society. The foundation has been instrumental in accelerating the adoption of distributed renewable energy to improve energy access, economic opportunities, and climate resilience in underserved communities across Africa.
The capacity building partner brings venture-building and enterprise support expertise, delivering structured programs that strengthen business models, strategies, and readiness for scale among social entrepreneurs.
How to apply
Apply Directly: If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to commit to this transformative journey, submit your application using the link here.
Nominate Someone: Know an exceptional innovator who would benefit from this program? Nominate them through the same application form.
Click Here To Apply
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