Call for Applications: Pivot Challenge 2024 For early-stage startup in Africa
The Pivot Challenge aims to identify and support early-stage organizations with innovative solutions to social problems, fostering entrepreneurship and social impact in Southeastern Nigeria. This inaugural event will mark the first-ever Pivot Challenge, aligning with The Pivot’s mission of promoting values, socioeconomic progress, and leadership accountability.
The Pivot responds to the need for a fresh perspective on the development trajectory of African communities. It focuses on engaging stakeholders in constructive dialogue and proactive problem-solving to reshape societal narratives toward prosperity, equity, and progress.
Successful applicants will be enrolled in a free two-week BootCamp, culminating in the selection of the top 5 participants who will pitch their ideas at the Pivot Conference. Winners will receive prize money, mentorship, partnerships, and other investment opportunities, contributing to the growth and sustainability of Africa’s green economy.
Target Sectors
Individuals, teams, startups, NGOs, and social enterprises with early-stage innovative ideas focusing on community development, social innovation or social impact in the following sectors:
Agriculture and Food Security
* Sustainable farming practices
* Food production and distribution
* Agritech innovations
Clean Energy and Environment
* Renewable energy solutions
* Waste management and recycling
* Water conservation and management
Gender Equality and Social Inclusion
* Women’s empowerment programs
* Initiatives for marginalized communities
* Social justice and human rights advocacy
Technology and Innovation
* Information and communication technology (ICT)
* Startups in tech innovation
* Digital transformation solutions
Healthcare and Well-being
* Access to medical services
* Health tech solutions
* Public health initiatives
Education and Skill Development
* E-learning platforms
* Vocational training programs
* Educational technology
Infrastructure and Urban Development
* Smart city projects
* Affordable housing
* Transportation and logistics
Insecurity
* Solutions to enhance security, Peace building, community safety initiatives, technology-driven security measures, and conflict resolution.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to participate in the Pivot Challenge, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Young Innovators
Applicants must be young.
Sector Focus
Applicants must operate within sectors aligned with the goals of the Pivot Challenge, including but not limited to Agriculture and Food Security, Clean Energy and Environment, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion, Technology and Innovation, Healthcare and Well-being, Economic Development and Job Creation, Education and Skill Development, Infrastructure and Urban Development, and Insecurity.
Operational Duration
Organizations must have been operational for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 3 years from the date of registration for the challenge.
Business Model
Applicants must have a clearly defined and innovative business model that demonstrates potential for social impact and sustainability.
Organization Portfolio
Organizations must provide evidence of their portfolio of work, including past projects, initiatives, or products/services developed.
Geographical Location
Organizations must be in operation in the Southeastern part of Nigeria.
Women-Led
Organizations with female founders or with females in leadership positions are highly encouraged to apply.
Benefits:
-Enrollment in a free two-week online boot camp
-Mentorship from industry experts
-Opportunities for partnerships and investment
-Prize money for top innovators
Deadline: August 12, 2024