Young African innovators have a new platform to shine as the Future of Energy Conference (FEC) 2026 officially opens its Innovation Challenge.
This initiative seeks to accelerate sustainable, low-carbon solutions tailored specifically for the continent’s unique energy needs.
Hosted in Accra, the challenge targets projects ranging from working models to pilot-tested concepts.
Key areas of interest include clean cooking, circular economy ideas, and transformative lithium-ion battery innovations.
Application requirements and eligibility
The competition is open exclusively to African nationals between the ages of 15 and 35, regardless of whether they currently reside on the continent or abroad.
Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to transforming Africa’s energy landscape through practical or disruptive ideas.
Candidates can choose between two distinct tracks: the Pan-African Low Carbon Innovation Track for general power and digital energy ideas, or the Afro-Hackathon Track, which focuses specifically on lithium-ion battery development.
The latter is supported by major partners including AUDA-NEPAD and the UNDP.
The selection involves a rigorous multi-stage process, including application reviews, virtual interviews, and an intensive “Innovathon”.
Finalists will ultimately travel to Ghana for a high-stakes pitch event scheduled for August 25 and 26, 2026.
Funding and benefits
Successful applicants will gain unprecedented exposure by presenting their ideas to a crowd of over 1,000 policymakers, investors, and industry giants.
This networking opportunity is designed to connect young creators with the broader energy ecosystem.
Beyond the spotlight, winners will receive cash prizes, professional mentorship, and incubation support through the ACEP Climate Innovation Hub.
Notably, all participants will retain full intellectual property rights over their innovations throughout the process.
Deadline
Interested parties must act quickly, as the application window closes on May 31, 2026.
Submissions and inquiries can be directed to the official conference organizers via email at fec2026@acep.africa.
To apply, visit Young African innovators call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
