The AI4D Research & Innovation for Climate (RICH) Hub is accepting Expressions of Interest on a rolling basis from African climate AI innovators. This opportunity is open to African-led or Africa-based innovators, researchers, startups, organisations, and solution developers working on climate resilience.
Selected innovations may receive technical support, coaching, research and piloting opportunities, ecosystem connections, visibility, partnerships, and potential scaling grants. Importantly, potential scaling grants may reach up to USD 200,000.
Application Deadline:
- Rolling Basis (Open for submissions; innovators can apply when ready for consideration as opportunities arise).
Tell Me About The Program:
The Research & Innovation for Climate (RICH) Hub (managed by the Local Development Research Institute / LDRI under AI4D) has issued a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) inviting African climate AI innovators, researchers, startups, organizations, and solution developers to join its growing pipeline of innovations. The initiative seeks to identify, support, and scale promising data-driven and artificial intelligence technologies that address pressing climate change and environmental challenges across African communities, ecosystems, and economies.
Which Fields are Eligible:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning for Climate Resilience
- Data-Driven Climate Solutions & Environmental Technology
- Agriculture, Adaptation, Renewable Energy, Water Resources, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Sustainable Development
Type:
African Climate AI Innovation Pipeline & Scaling Support Programme
Who can Apply:
- Geographic Scope: African-led or Africa-based innovators, startups, and organizations.
- Maturity Stage: Solutions must have reached the pilot stage or beyond and be actively tested or used with intended communities, organizations, or end users.
- Core Focus: Must address a clearly defined climate/environmental challenge and use AI or data-driven tech as a core part of the solution.
How are Applicants Selected:
Expressions of interest are evaluated on a rolling basis by the RICH Hub team based on the innovation’s stage of development, relevance to African climate challenges, technical feasibility, impact potential, and alignment with the hub’s strategic objectives. (Note: Submitting an EOI does not guarantee selection, support, or funding).
Which Countries Are Eligible:
Africa-wide (Open to innovators based in African countries).
Where will the Program be Taken:
Pan-African / Remote support with localized piloting and implementation across Africa.
How Many Fellows:
Open pipeline intake (rolling selection cohort).
What is the Benefit of the Program:
- Scaling Grants: Potential scaling grants of up to USD $200,000 (subject to eligibility, assessment, available resources, and alignment).
- Technical & Innovation Support: Tailored coaching, research collaboration, and piloting opportunities.
- Ecosystem Connections: Access to scaling partnerships, knowledge exchange networks, potential funders, and implementation partners.
- Visibility: Option to be featured in the public Climate AI Innovation Database to enhance global visibility.
How Long Will it Last:
Flexible programmatic support based on the innovation’s stage of development and partnership agreements.
How to Apply:
- Review the RICH Hub climate AI innovation criteria and ensure your solution has reached the pilot stage.
- Complete and submit the official RICH Hub Climate AI Innovation Expression of Interest Form online.
- For inquiries or additional information, contact the organizers at
👉 Visit the official grant page for details
