About the Challenge
The Sterling Bank Green Innovation Challenge 2024 is a unique opportunity for Nigerian startups, MSMEs, SMEs, cooperatives, and social enterprises driving environmental innovation. This initiative is designed to provide participants with access to funding, mentorship, and networking with industry leaders, aiming to foster growth for innovative projects that align with sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
Host: Sterling Bank
Category: Competitions
Eligible Countries: Nigeria
Rewards: ₦20 Million Funding | Mentorship | Networking
Application Deadline: October 20, 2024
Key Benefits
- Funding Up to ₦20 Million: Access to single-digit financing facilities for innovative agricultural and cleantech solutions.
- On-Lending Financing: Receive up to ₦1 Billion in on-lending financing for cleantech projects.
- Mentorship: Gain access to expert mentorship and guidance to help you scale your project and make a lasting impact.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry professionals to explore collaborations and partnerships.
- Focus on ESG & SDGs: Support for solutions that align with ESG principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in the Sterling Bank Green Innovation Challenge 2024, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Business or Social Enterprise: Operating for at least 2 years in Nigeria.
- Locally Developed Solutions: The project must be an innovation developed by Nigerians for Nigeria, addressing environmental challenges.
- Clear Plan for Scale: Your innovation must demonstrate a strategy for scaling operations.
- Registered Entity: Applicants seeking funding for business ventures must be legally registered.
- Required Documents: Submission of a business plan and pitch deck (for businesses) or a proposal (for social enterprises) is mandatory.
- Willingness to Complete Documentation: Applicants must be prepared to complete all necessary financing documentation.
- One Entry Per Applicant: Multiple submissions will lead to disqualification.
Areas of Focus
The challenge focuses on environmental innovation in the following areas:
- Cleantech Solutions
- Agricultural Innovation
- Women-Led Social Enterprises
What You Stand to Gain
- Up to ₦20 Million in Funding for innovative solutions in agriculture and cleantech.
- Access to a single-digit financing facility for environmentally focused projects.
- Mentorship from industry experts to help scale your project.
- On-lending financing of up to ₦1 Billion for cleantech initiatives.
- Support in developing technology-driven solutions that boost productivity, profitability, and tackle climate challenges.
How to Apply
To apply for the Sterling Bank Green Innovation Challenge 2024, follow these steps:
- Review Eligibility: Ensure your business or social enterprise meets the eligibility criteria.
- Prepare Your Documents: Get your business plan, pitch deck, or proposal ready.
- Complete the Application: Click the green button below to fill out the application form.
- Submit: Be sure to submit your application before the deadline on October 20, 2024 at 2 PM.