West African Green Energy Fund Opens with €20,000 Grants for Young Innovators

A new funding initiative is launching for West African entrepreneurs and researchers. The WASCAL Innovative Ideas Competition for Sustainable Energy (WISE) 2025 is now accepting applications. The deadline for submissions is December 31, 2025.

This competition seeks groundbreaking projects in renewable energy and green hydrogen. It is financially backed by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.

Funding and Focus for Sustainable Development

The WISE competition will provide grants of up to €20,000 per project. Funded initiatives must be completed within a 15-month timeframe. This support targets short-term, high-impact ideas.

Projects can cover a wide range of sustainable energy themes. These include green mobility, energy efficiency, and the energy-water-food nexus. Empowering women and girls in the renewables sector is also a key thematic area.

Eligibility and Application Process for West Africans

The call is open to young individuals and groups from West Africa. Eligible countries include Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and 12 other nations. Applicants must have a local bank account to receive funds.

According to Reuters, such grassroots funding is vital for regional climate resilience. Legally registered associations in West Africa are also encouraged to apply. They must provide a certificate of registration with their submission.

The application requires a completed form, CVs, and an endorsement letter. All documents must be submitted in PDF format via email. Proposals can be written in either English or French.

This green energy fund represents a significant opportunity for West African innovation. The WISE initiative directly fuels local solutions to the continent’s energy challenges. It marks a critical step toward a sustainable future.

Info at your fingertips

Who can apply for the WISE 2025 grant?

The grant is open to young West Africans from 15 countries. This includes students, entrepreneurs, and scientists. Legally registered organizations in the region are also eligible.

What is the maximum grant amount available?

Each selected project can receive up to €20,000 in funding. The project duration must not exceed 15 months. This is a non-negotiable timeframe for all grantees.

What types of projects is WISE looking for?

The competition seeks ideas in renewable energy and green hydrogen. Other focus areas include green mobility and energy access. Innovative business models for energy services are also welcome.

What is the application deadline?

All applications must be submitted by December 31, 2025. The deadline is strict and set for 11:59 pm GMT. Late submissions will not be considered.

Which countries are eligible for this program?

Eligible nations include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, and The Gambia. Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Ivory Coast are also included. Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo round out the list.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press