Ready to transform the future for children? Apply now for the UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator Programme and scale your tech-driven solution for social impact. Apply below:
When is the Application Deadline?
The application deadline is May 15, 2025.
Tell Me About The UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator Programme:
The UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator Programme is a six-month tech accelerator that supports impactful startups working on solutions that advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for children and young people. It focuses on creating social impact through technology in sectors like health, education, urban services, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), child protection, climate action, and more. The program, established by UNICEF and supported by KOICA, offers mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities to startups tackling complex global challenges, especially for vulnerable children and youth. Participants have the chance to scale their solutions with access to funding, resources, and partnerships, while contributing to the development of Digital Public Goods recognized by the UN.
Which Fields are Eligible?
The following fields are eligible:
- Health
- Education
- Urban Services
- WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene)
- Climate Action
- Child Protection
- Finance
- Agriculture
- Blockchain
- AI/ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning)
- Cybersecurity
Type:
Accelerator Program
Check:
- Providence Memorial Scholarship 2025 is offering up to $1,000 for Black or African students in English-speaking Africa—Apply!
- Call For Applications: WTO & ITC Launch 2025 WEIDE Fund to Empower Women-Led Businesses in the Digital Economy (Up To USD 30,000 Grant)
- British Academy Launches Writing & Mentoring Workshop 2025 for Early Career Researchers in West Africa – Apply Now!
Who can Apply for the UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator Programme?
The eligibility criteria include:
- Startups must be operational for at least one year.
- The startup must be a registered business.
- Technology must be the core enabler of the business.
- Open-source innovations are encouraged to apply.
- The business model must focus on social impact and address at least one SDG.
- Startups with female founders/co-founders are encouraged to apply.
- The program is open to startups across all regions of Ghana.
How are Applicants Selected?
Applicants are selected based on the impact of their solution, innovation in addressing a development challenge, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Priority is given to tech-driven startups that focus on social good, with special encouragement for startups led by female founders/co-founders.
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
Required Documents:
- Completed application form.
- Company pitch deck.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Ghana
Where will the Award be Taken?
Ghana
How Many Awards?
25
What is the Benefit of the UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator Programme?
The program benefits include:
- Funding: Access to up to GHS 75,000 for prototyping and GHS 150,000 for scale-up funding for three selected startups.
- Growth: Intense business acceleration to amplify impact locally and globally.
- Investment: Networking opportunities and connections with investors, including the UNICEF Venture Fund.
- Resources: Access to technical perks, including AWS cloud storage credits and linkages with KOICA and other development partners
- Partnerships: Opportunities to collaborate with UNICEF programs and other stakeholders.
- Impact: The chance to refine your solution to become a Digital Public Good, recognized by the UN
How Long Will the Award Last?
6 months
How to Apply:
To apply, complete the application form, including uploading your company pitch deck. It will take approximately 20 minutes to complete the application.
Visit the official application webpage.
