UNICEF has initiated the BeGreen Africa 3.0 Green Entrepreneurship Programme to aid young entrepreneurs in South Africa and Nigeria. The programme encompasses green business training, mentorship, seed funding, incubation, and market support, focusing on enhancing youth-led green enterprises, promoting sustainable employment, and assisting young women and vulnerable groups in developing climate-friendly businesses.
Application Deadline:
- Not specified
Tell Me About The Award:
The BeGreen Africa 3.0 Programme, launched by UNICEF, supports young entrepreneurs in South Africa and Nigeria to build climate‑friendly businesses. It provides green entrepreneurship training, mentorship, seed funding, incubation, and market support to strengthen youth‑led enterprises, promote sustainable employment, and increase women’s economic inclusion.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Programme focus areas include:
- Green Business Models
- Waste Management Solutions
- Sustainable Enterprise Development
- Climate‑Friendly Innovation
- Financial Literacy & Market Access
Type:
- Entrepreneurship Programme | Training | Seed Funding | Incubation
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be young entrepreneurs or part of youth-led MSMEs/start-ups.
- Be based in Gauteng, South Africa or Lagos, Nigeria.
- Demonstrate interest in environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
- Show potential for employment creation and business growth.
- Priority given to young women entrepreneurs and vulnerable groups.
How are Applicants Selected?
The programme follows a stage‑based model:
- Foundational Training: 20,000 youth trained in green entrepreneurship basics.
- Advanced Learning: Selected participants engage in design sprints, business planning, and coaching.
- Pitching & Selection: Entrepreneurs present ideas for expert evaluation.
- Seed Funding & Incubation: Up to 45 entrepreneurs were awarded USD $5,000 each plus incubation support.
Which Countries are Eligible?
- South Africa (Gauteng)
- Nigeria (Lagos)
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Training and incubation in South Africa and Nigeria.
How Many Awards?
- 20,000 youths trained in the foundational stage.
- Up to 45 entrepreneurs selected for seed funding and incubation.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Entrepreneurship training and vocational education.
- Mentorship and coaching from industry experts.
- Business development support and financial literacy.
- Seed funding up to USD $5,000.
- Access to markets, networks, and incubation support.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Multi‑stage programme running through 2026–2027, with incubation extending beyond initial training.
How to Apply:
- Review eligibility criteria.
- Prepare the application via the UN Partner Portal.
- Submit before 29 July 2026.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details