Applications open for Bahari Innovation Challenge Program in Tanzania

The Bahari Innovation Challenge Tanzania presents an exciting opportunity for innovators, startups, and community-based enterprises working in aquaculture, fisheries, and sustainable tourism. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and implemented by GIZ through the ProsperBlue Programme, this initiative aims to empower coastal entrepreneurs to create scalable, inclusive, and climate-smart solutions.

Forty high-potential participants from Tanzania’s coastal regions will be supported to move from ideation to prototyping, market validation, and investment readiness. The program is designed to strengthen the blue economy innovation ecosystem, fostering ventures that contribute to job creation, climate resilience, and sustainable coastal development while promoting gender equity.

Participants will receive technical training and mentorship from experts, as well as seed funding to help bring their ideas to market. After the program, incubation support will continue to assist participants in scaling their ventures and establishing a strong presence in the blue economy.

The initiative is open to early-stage startups, research-based innovators, and community enterprises operating in coastal or island regions of Tanzania. Applicants must demonstrate innovation in areas such as aquaculture, marine environmental services, eco-tourism, blue biotechnology, and circular economy solutions for marine waste. Equity-free Grant funding of 145 Million Tanzanian shillings to be won.
This program offers innovators the chance to develop practical solutions that address local challenges while contributing to sustainable economic growth. By participating, entrepreneurs can access resources, guidance, and networks that will help transform their ideas into investable, impactful ventures, shaping the future of Tanzania’s coastal and marine sectors.

For more information, visit Sote Hub.