Call for Applications: UNICEF StartUp Lab 2024 (up to GHS 32,000)
The UNICEF StartUp Lab, launched in 2019, offers a transformative six-month accelerator program for impactful startups dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals for children and young people. In collaboration with KOICA and executed by MEST Africa, UNICEF leads the program in Ghana, combining a hands-on business acceleration with extensive technical expertise in key social sectors.
Program Highlights:
- Diverse Focus Areas:
- Led by UNICEF experts in Education, Health & Nutrition, Social Policy & Protection, WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene), and Child Protection.
- Participants gain deep insights into technology, sustainable entrepreneurship, and social impact.
- Comprehensive Support:
- Intense, hands-on practical business acceleration.
- Individual mentorship and access to a network of UN System partners.
- Prototyping funding and global opportunities from the UNICEF Venture Fund.
- Benefits:
- Each startup receives up to GHS 32,000 for product development.
- Global funding opportunities and potential investment.
- Access to a wide network of UN System partners.
- Technology perks for participating startups.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Operational for 1+ year.
- Registered business in Ghana (no NGOs, foundations, or individuals).
- Technology as the core enabler of the business.
- Business model with a social impact addressing at least one Sustainable Development Goal.
- Open-source solutions or willingness to open-source encouraged.
- Female founders/co-founders are encouraged to apply.
- Startups related to Health Tech, EdTech, Urban Tech, Climate Action, Fintech, and WASH strongly encouraged.
- Regional Representation:
- Seeking 5 startups each from Northern, Eastern, Western, and Southern regions of Ghana.
- Aim for a complete cohort of 25 participants.
Application Deadline: February 29, 2024