The Global Innovation Lab for Climate Finance has announced the launch of its 2026 Call for Ideas, inviting innovators, entrepreneurs, and organizations to propose groundbreaking financial mechanisms that can drive investment into climate solutions. This initiative supports the development of cutting-edge, scalable models designed to accelerate sustainable finance in developing economies, including across Africa.
Program Overview
- Program Name: 2026 Call for Ideas — The Global Innovation Lab for Climate Finance
- Organizer: The Global Innovation Lab for Climate Finance
- Organizer Website: https://www.climatefinancelab.org
- Program URL: https://www.climatefinancelab.org/call-for-ideas/
Objective and Focus
The Lab’s Call for Ideas seeks innovative financial instruments that can unlock private investment for climate action. Proposals should address major climate finance gaps, particularly those that can be replicated or scaled to deliver long-term impact.
Focus areas include:
- Climate mitigation and adaptation
- Energy transition and clean energy access
- Climate-smart agriculture and food systems
- Sustainable land use and forestry (AFOLU)
- Resilient cities and infrastructure
Program Benefits
Selected participants will receive tailored technical assistance, market connections, and investor engagement to advance their ideas toward implementation.
Key benefits include:
- Expert guidance from climate finance and investment specialists
- Access to a network of public and private investors
- Potential to receive USD 150,000–250,000 in grant funding
- Global visibility through the Lab’s communication channels
Eligibility and Target Participants
The initiative targets early-stage innovations capable of mobilizing capital toward climate goals.
Ideal applicants include:
- Entrepreneurs, startups, and early-stage ventures
- Development finance institutions and investment funds
- NGOs, research institutions, and public-private partnerships
- Teams with a clear implementation plan and measurable climate impact
Target Stage: Pre-seed, Seed
Target Regions: All African countries and other developing economies
Application Details
- Application Deadline: 10 November 2025, 08:59 GMT+1
- Selection: Up to eight high-potential ideas will be chosen for the 2026 cycle
- Categories: Accelerator, Incubator, Funding Opportunity, Competition
Applicants are encouraged to review the Lab’s previous successful instruments to understand the level of innovation and scalability expected.
The Global Innovation Lab for Climate Finance continues to play a vital role in accelerating climate investment through innovative financing solutions. The 2026 Call for Ideas represents an opportunity for innovators to transform their concepts into actionable, investable models that drive sustainable impact across Africa and other developing regions.