Applications are currently open for the 2026 UNDP Africa Timbuktoo Launchpad Program, an initiative designed to identify, support, and prepare promising startups that are developing innovative solutions for Africa's green transition and climate resilience. As a core component of timbuktoo, UNDP's flagship pan-African innovation initiative, the Launchpad focuses on technology-driven startups with the potential to address environmental challenges, increase clean energy access, promote circular economy models, and build climate-resilient solutions across the continent.
Program Structure and Support
• Through the timbuktoo GreenTech Hub hosted in Kenya, UNDP is fostering the next generation of African entrepreneurs dedicated to transforming environmental sustainability and climate action at scale.
• Selected GreenTech startups will join the timbuktoo Launchpad, gaining entry into a distributed ecosystem of incubators, innovation hubs, mentors, and investors collaborating to support startups throughout Africa.
• Admitted startups will receive structured incubation support from accredited incubators participating in the program, along with access to a broader continental network of founders, ecosystem partners, and investors.
• Participants will also be granted access to the timbuktoo Pan African Incubation digital platform, powered by Seedstars' SIGMA platform, which equips founders with structured tools, mentorship matching, learning resources, and AI-powered guidance to accelerate growth and prepare for investment readiness.
Programme Eligibility Criteria
• Be based in Africa or be building solutions that target African green and climate markets.
• Possess a prototype or a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
• Have a committed founding team.
• Address a clearly defined challenge within the areas of climate action, clean energy, or environmental sustainability.
• Demonstrate clear potential for growth and scalability.
Programme Benefits
• Structured incubation programs delivered by leading African incubators.
• Access to experienced mentors, climate tech entrepreneurs, and sector experts.
• Participation in a pan-African network of founders, incubators, and climate ecosystem partners.
• Access to the SIGMA digital platform for startup development and progress tracking.
• Investment readiness support, including pitch development and climate finance preparation.
• Participation in demo days and ecosystem events across Africa.
• Access to potential pathways for acceleration programs and early-stage investment opportunities.
Application Details
• Application Deadline: Applications are open on a rolling basis, with startups admitted through quarterly cohorts.
• How to Apply: Interested startups can submit their applications via the dedicated platform at https://airtable.com/appYbpSCCV1VosC1M/pagMQfKHj9mIYPFyN/form.
• More Information: For further details, please visit the Official Webpage of the UNDP Africa Timbuktoo Launchpad Program.
Entrepreneurs and founding teams with a focus on GreenTech solutions for the African continent are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and consider applying to this program to leverage its comprehensive support system and pan-African network.