Call for Applications: Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (South Africa)

The program focuses on clean technology innovation, energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste beneficiation including e-waste, water efficiency, green buildings, green transportation, environmental protection across air, sea, and land, emissions reduction, low-carbon industrial development, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation through innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP), implemented by UNIDO and supported by the Global Environment Facility and the Green Climate Fund, aims to accelerate high-impact cleantech innovations while promoting sustainable and low-emission industries. It also strengthens international collaboration, including South-South and triangular cooperation, and supports inclusive and sustainable industrial development through innovation-led growth.

The program operates as a business accelerator combined with an annual competition, where SMEs and startups receive continuous training, mentorship, and evaluation. Participants are guided in improving their business models, investor pitches, communication skills, and financial readiness to enhance their ability to scale and attract funding.

GCIP South Africa specifically supports small and medium-sized enterprises and startups working on cleantech solutions that can contribute to solving energy, environmental, and economic challenges. The initiative has supported over 100 SMEs and startups since 2014 and continues to strengthen innovation ecosystems that promote scalable and affordable solutions for global environmental issues.

Following participation in the program, many alumni become better positioned for additional funding opportunities and broader market access, enabling them to further develop and expand their clean technology solutions.

For more information, visit UJ PEETS.