About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Do you have an innovative idea that could transform Africa’s energy future? The Future of Energy Conference (FEC) 2026 invites you to apply for its Innovation Challenge. This platform highlights, supports, and accelerates low-carbon and energy solutions tailored for Africa. If you are working on sustainable energy access, clean cooking, circular economy ideas, or lithium-ion battery innovation, this is your chance to present your solution at one of Africa’s top energy events. African nationals aged 15 to 35, whether living on the continent or abroad, can apply at any stage from a working model to a pilot-tested concept.
Winners of the 2025 FEC Innovation Challenge gather on stage, proudly holding their cash prize awards
The Challenge has two tracks. Track 1, the Pan-African Low Carbon Innovation Track, welcomes a wide range of practical and disruptive ideas in power systems, digital energy, industrial energy, and more. Track 2, the Afro-Hackathon Track, focuses on lithium-ion battery design, applications, and value chain development, with support from partners like AUDA-NEPAD, AMDC, Africa Change Lab, and UNDP. Both tracks use a multi-stage selection process, including application review, virtual interviews, and an Innovathon that includes a case series. The process ends with a Final Pitch Event at FEC 2026 in Accra, Ghana, on August 25 and 26, 2026.
Winners will receive more than just recognition. Finalists will present their ideas to over 1,000 policymakers, investors, and industry leaders. They will also have access to cash prizes, mentorship, and incubation support through ACEP’s Climate Innovation Hub, while keeping full intellectual property rights over their innovations. Don’t miss this chance to help shape Africa’s energy future and connect your solution with the right ecosystem.
How to apply