WASCAL has launched the #WISE Innovative Ideas Competition to support clean energy and green hydrogen solutions that can strengthen climate resilience across West Africa.
The initiative seeks practical, community-focused ideas that expand renewable-energy access and address the energy–water–food nexus across the region.
Aim
The competition aims to inspire fresh solutions that directly tackle West Africa’s climate and energy challenges.
WASCAL welcomes ideas that help communities transition to cleaner power, reduce vulnerability to extreme weather, and improve sustainable resource management. Proposals should clearly demonstrate how innovation can lead to long-term environmental and economic benefits for the region.
Funding
Selected projects will receive up to $20,000 for interventions deliverable within 15 months.
Funding may support prototype development, field testing, pilot deployment, technical refinement or community engagement. The goal is to help promising ideas evolve into scalable solutions that contribute meaningfully to West Africa’s clean energy transition.
Who can apply
The competition is open to a broad range of actors across West Africa, including:
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Individuals from WASCAL member states
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Youth innovators or informal groups
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Research teams focused on climate and energy
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Legally registered organisations with project management capability
Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to execute a 15-month project and a solid understanding of the local challenges their ideas aim to address.
Requirements
Applicants must submit a well-structured, practical idea that fits the competition timeline. Proposals should:
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Identify the problem.
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Describe the proposed solution.
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Explain expected impacts.
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Show clear relevance to renewable energy or green hydrogen.
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Include an implementation plan with measurable outcomes.
Deadline
Eligible applicants should visit the WASCAL website to apply before December 31.
Explore our Opportunities page for more pitch calls on energy access.
Summary not available at this time.
