Application Deadline: Ongoing
Applications are now open for the 2026 UNDP Africa Timbuktoo Launchpad Program. The Launchpad is designed to identify, support, and prepare promising startups developing innovative solutions for Africa’s green transition and climate resilience.
Anchored within timbuktoo, UNDP’s flagship pan African innovation initiative, the timbuktoo Launchpad supports technology driven startups with the potential to tackle environmental challenges, expand clean energy access, advance circular economy models, and build climate resilient solutions across the continent.
Through the timbuktoo GreenTech Hub hosted in Kenya, UNDP is supporting the next generation of African entrepreneurs building solutions that can transform environmental sustainability and climate action at scale.
Selected GreenTech startups will join the timbuktoo Launchpad, gaining access to a distributed ecosystem of incubators, innovation hubs, mentors, and investors working together to support startups across Africa.
Startups admitted to the program will receive structured incubation support delivered by accredited incubators participating in the timbuktoo Launchpad, alongside access to a broader continental network of founders, ecosystem partners, and investors. Participants will also gain access to the timbuktoo Pan African Incubation digital platform, powered by Seedstars’ SIGMA platform, which provides founders with structured tools, mentorship matching, learning resources, and AI powered guidance to accelerate startup growth and prepare for investment readiness.
Programme Eligibility Criteria
Eligible startups must:
- Be based in Africa or building solutions targeting African green and climate markets
- Have a prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Have a committed founding team
- Address a clearly defined challenge within climate action, clean energy, or environmental sustainability
- Demonstrate potential for growth and scalability
Programme Benefits
GreenTech startups selected for the program will benefit from a combination of local incubation support and pan African ecosystem access, including:
- 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 to acceleration programs and early stage investment opportunities
How to Apply
Applications are open on a rolling basis, with startups admitted through quarterly cohorts.
- Interested startups can submit their applications via the dedicated platform:
Link: https://airtable.com/appYbpSCCV1VosC1M/pagMQfKHj9mIYPFyN/form
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the UNDP Africa Timbuktoo Launchpad Program
