| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 16th May 2025 (23:59 CET) |
| Call for Projects Launch | 10th March 2025 |
| Organizer | French Agency for Development (AFD) |
| Supported by | European Union, AFD, ADEME |
| Eligible Regions | Africa |
| Eligible Participants | Start-ups, NGOs, Innovative Technology/Service Providers |
| Project Focus Areas | Digital energy solutions, renewable energy integration, energy access, utility performance improvement |
| Themes (for Start-ups Challenge) | Universal electricity access & mini-grids, Efficient grid management, Resilience & decarbonization of power systems |
| Application Process | Online submission |
| Official Website | AFD Digital Energy Challenge |
The French Agency for Development (AFD) Digital Energy Challenge is back for 2025, providing an opportunity for start-ups, NGOs, and innovative technology providers to develop cutting-edge digital energy solutions. The Challenge, first launched in 2020 and supported by the European Union, AFD, and ADEME, has already facilitated the growth of over 30 energy-based projects. Given its success, the initiative will continue in 2025, reinforcing efforts to boost energy access and efficiency across Africa.
This challenge aims to support the development of innovative solutions that can:
- Enhance access to electricity
- Improve grid management
- Integrate renewable energy sources
- Strengthen resilience and decarbonization of power systems
Eligibility Criteria
The 2025 Call for Projects is open to initiatives being implemented in Africa and owned by:
1. Start-ups and NGOs
- Must be in the pre-seed phase or at an early stage of development.
- NGOs may apply under the Start-up category.
- Project management activities must be based in the country where the project is being implemented.
2. Innovative Technology or Service Providers
- Must have developed a digital solution ready for testing.
- Projects must incorporate digital technology (e.g., telecom, cloud, or computer-based solutions).
- Innovation should be intrinsically new or adapted to the local market.
Eligible Project Themes
For the Start-ups Challenge, projects must focus on one of the following three themes:
- Universal Electricity Access & Mini-Grids
- Expanding off-grid energy solutions
- Enhancing decentralized energy access
- Deploying smart mini-grid technologies
- Efficient Grid Management
- Using digital tools to enhance grid operations
- Implementing predictive maintenance solutions
- Reducing energy losses in transmission and distribution
- Resilience & Decarbonization of Power Systems
- Integrating renewable energy sources
- Developing solutions for low-carbon energy generation
- Enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability
Application Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Projects Launch | 10th March 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 16th May 2025 (23:59 CET) |
How to Apply
Interested applicants can submit their proposals through the official AFD Digital Energy Challenge portal. The application process involves:
- Project Proposal Submission – Providing detailed descriptions of the initiative, technology, and expected impact.
- Review & Selection Process – Evaluations by an expert panel based on innovation, feasibility, and scalability.
- Announcement of Winners – Successful projects will receive support, mentorship, and funding.
Why Apply?
Participants stand a chance to receive:
- Financial & Technical Support to scale their innovations.
- Networking & Mentorship Opportunities with industry experts.
- Exposure & Visibility within the renewable energy and digital sectors.
More Information
For full details on eligibility, selection criteria, and benefits, visit the Official Webpage of the AFD Digital Energy Challenge.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the future of digital energy in Africa!
For additional scholarship opportunities, explore:
- DAAD Scholarship 2025: Fully Funded Masters and PhD Opportunities in Germany
- New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program
- British Council Scholarship
- Wells Mountain Initiative Scholarship: Fully Funded Undergraduate Support
- United Nations Millennium Fellowship 2025 For Students Worldwide
- Radboud University Scholarship (Fully Funded)
