Deadline Date: February 06, 2026
The National Business Initiative is a global technical assistance programme funded by the UK government, which is seeking applications for its programme to support high-potential climate businesses and projects in South Africa to access finance.
The programme focuses on measurable climate impact, minimum total financing need of at least USD 3 million, stage of development including completed full feasibility studies and preferably Technology Readiness Level 7 or above, commercial model capable of generating attractive risk-adjusted returns over time, sectoral focus in energy, transport, waste management, water, or sustainable agriculture, and positive environmental and social outcomes including a commitment to gender equality, disability, and broader social inclusion.
The Climate Finance Accelerator helps businesses and projects strengthen their investment cases and connects entrepreneurs and developers with investors, contributing to closed deals and unlocking significant volumes of climate finance since its launch in 2020. It operates across multiple countries and catalyses the flow of finance needed to deliver national climate ambitions.
Participants receive capacity-building support, practical tools and materials, and curated connections across the finance ecosystem. The programme provides tailored and fully independent advice to help businesses align with investor requirements, prepare compelling investment documentation, navigate policy and regulatory considerations, and build relationships that support outreach to potential financiers, resulting in improved investor readiness and stronger foundations for investor engagement.
The programme facilitates curated opportunities to network with commercial and concessional financiers operating nationally, regionally, and internationally, informed by investor mandates and risk appetite. Selected businesses and projects also benefit from investor-led coaching and best-practice insights, with tailored support on business model robustness, risk mitigation, clarity on the funding ask, and capital-raising strategy, alongside preparation of investment-grade materials including pitch decks and ESG plans.
Through networking across the climate finance ecosystem, participants build relationships with investors, public and institutional partners, corporates, and cross-country peers, creating long-term opportunities beyond the programme cycle. Participation also increases visibility and credibility through CFA events, website features, and social media highlights.
The Climate Finance Accelerator further supports businesses and projects to understand, enhance, and communicate their environmental and social impacts, align with national climate ambitions, and highlight co-benefits such as poverty reduction, improved gender equality, disability and social inclusion, and protection of nature and biodiversity, while strengthening governance safeguards and risk-management expectations.
For more information, visit NBI.
