Deadline Date: May 01, 2026
The Changemakers Africa Incubation Program by the Swiss Re Foundation invites early-stage entrepreneurs across Africa to join a five-month incubation program designed to help them refine their business models, gain mentorship, and scale impactful solutions in health and climate sectors.
The program focuses on Climate Solutions and Access to Health. Climate Solutions include initiatives that contribute to sustainability, conservation, and climate resilience; promote nature-based solutions or circular economy principles; support community adaptation to climate change such as flood-resistant infrastructure or net-zero transformation; protect biodiversity and healthy ecosystems through approaches like urban gardening, soil regeneration, and climate-smart agriculture; and incorporate renewable energy or waste reduction practices. Access to Health includes initiatives that enhance healthcare accessibility through models such as telemedicine or public health efficiency tools; address preventable lifestyle diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, malnutrition, and obesity; provide climate-resilient health solutions that mitigate health impacts from heatwaves or pollution; support nutritional security through food banks, zero-hunger initiatives, or improved access to quality nutrition; and encourage healthy habits and preventive health practices.
Changemakers Africa is a hands-on incubation program designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their ventures while connecting with a network of professionals and changemakers. Participants will have the opportunity to collaborate with other entrepreneurs, build meaningful relationships, and learn from a dynamic community that supports innovation and growth.
The program also provides personalized mentorship from professionals at Swiss Re who guide participants throughout the incubation process. These mentors offer feedback, help validate ideas, support the structuring of processes, and encourage accountability as entrepreneurs develop and refine their business models.
Participants will also prepare for an end-of-program Demo Day where they will present their ventures in front of their peers and Swiss Re experts. The program offers seed funding opportunities, with prizes awarded to top participants including $15,000 for first place, $10,000 for second place, and $5,000 for third place.
Throughout the program, entrepreneurs will gain practical knowledge on making their business unique and attracting more customers. They will learn how to calculate costs and price points, develop communication and promotion strategies, and prepare financial projections for the next three years to support informed decision-making.
The incubation program also encourages participants to understand and communicate the social impact of their businesses, enabling them to attract collaborators and potential investors. Entrepreneurs will also explore strategies to scale their ventures, expand operations, and reach new customers.
Changemakers Africa is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs whose businesses are focused on healthcare or climate resilience. Eligible applicants should have a socially innovative business in its early stages, such as one launched within the past two years or with a minimum viable product already developed.
Applicants must be based in an African country and should be able to participate in the program fully in English. Participants are expected to dedicate approximately six to eight hours per week during the five-month program and must have reliable internet access and a computer or laptop to engage in the online incubation activities.
For more information, visit Swiss Re Foundation.
