Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The Research & Innovation for Climate (RICH) Hub has launched an open Expression of Interest (EOI) for African climate AI innovators, researchers, startups, organizations, and solution developers. This initiative identifies promising innovations that use artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies to advance climate resilience across Africa. Selected participants may receive technical support, coaching, research opportunities, ecosystem connections, and potential scaling grants of up to USD 200,000.
What the RICH Hub Offers
Selected innovations gain access to a comprehensive support package tailored to their stage of development and alignment with Hub objectives:
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- Technical and innovation support: Expert guidance to refine and strengthen your solution
- Coaching: Mentorship from experienced climate and technology professionals
- Research and piloting opportunities: Platforms to test and validate innovations
- Ecosystem connections: Networks with collaborators, funders, and implementation partners
- Knowledge exchange: Learning from peers and sector experts
- Increased visibility: Exposure to regional and international stakeholders
- Scaling partnerships: Pathways to expand impact
- Potential scaling grants: Up to USD 200,000 for eligible innovations
Support is not automatic. The specific package depends on eligibility, assessment outcomes, available resources, innovation maturity, and strategic fit with Hub objectives.
Who Should Apply
The RICH Hub seeks African-led or Africa-based innovations meeting these criteria:
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- Address a clearly defined climate or environmental challenge relevant to African communities, ecosystems, institutions, or economies
- Use AI and/or data-driven technologies as a meaningful component of the solution
- Have reached pilot stage or beyond, with active testing or use among intended communities, organizations, or end users
- Demonstrate potential for further development, adoption, or scale
This opportunity is designed for innovators who have moved beyond concept phase and can demonstrate real-world application. Early-stage ideas without pilot implementation are unlikely to be competitive.
Application Process
The RICH Hub accepts Expressions of Interest on a rolling basis. However, due to high response volumes, the application form will temporarily close on 15 November 2026 to allow internal review and selection of the first cohort.
Step-by-step process:
- Prepare documentation describing your innovation, climate challenge addressed, AI/data components, pilot evidence, and scaling potential
- Complete the RICH Hub Climate AI Innovation Expression of Interest Form (available while the portal is open)
- Optionally consent to inclusion in a public Climate AI Innovation Database to increase visibility and facilitate connections
- Submit and await assessment
Submitting an EOI does not guarantee selection, support, or funding. Innovators are encouraged to apply when ready, as opportunities will continue to arise for suitable candidates.
Climate AI Innovation Database
Applicants may voluntarily consent to having selected information about their innovation included in a potential public database. This database aims to:
- Increase visibility of African climate AI innovations
- Facilitate connections with potential collaborators, funders, researchers, and implementation partners
Consent is entirely voluntary and does not affect consideration by the Hub.
Contact and Further Information
For questions not addressed in this guide, contact: comms@developlocal.org
Strategic Context for Zimbabwe and SADC Applicants
Innovators from Zimbabwe and the broader SADC region face distinctive climate challenges—including agricultural vulnerability, water scarcity, and infrastructure stress—that align well with RICH Hub priorities. The region’s growing tech ecosystem, combined with urgent adaptation needs, creates strong potential for competitive applications. When preparing your EOI, emphasize:
- Specific local climate risks and how your innovation addresses them
- Evidence of community or institutional uptake in Zimbabwean or SADC contexts
- Scalability across similar agro-ecological zones in Africa
Official scholarship page: https://climatehub.developlocal.org/2026/10/the-research-innovation-for-climate-hub-invites-african-climate-ai-innovators-to-explore-partnership-opportunities/
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships