Grants & Funding Ecosystem Accelerator Innovation Fund 2016- Applications Open!

Deadline: 18 September 2016

Applications are open for GSMA Ecosystem Accelerator Innovation Fund 2016 funded by UK Department for International Development (DFID), and supported by the GSMA and its members with an aim to support innovative start-ups in emerging markets.

Objectives

• Establish partnerships between operators and start-ups in order to increase the reach of innovative mobile services.

• Test business models with the greatest potential for growth.

• Provide lessons and examples for stakeholders within the ecosystem, on the ways in which mobile is driving positive socio-economic change.

Focus Areas

• Sharing economy: Any mobile-based platform, product or service which enables low-income citizens in emerging markets to generate income from ‘underutilized assets’ through sharing those assets with their peers.

• Services for SMEs: Any mobile-based solution, product or service designed for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) – formal or informal – in emerging markets which unlock improved productivity and growth.

Funding Information

Successful start-ups will receive:

• Funding: grants between GBP 100,000 and GBP 250,000.

• Mobile-focused mentoring and bespoke technical assistance.

• Opportunities to build partnerships with mobile operators in relevant markets.

Eligibility Criteria

The Fund is open to start-ups from, and operating in, Africa (including Kenya) and selected countries in Asia.

How to Apply

Interested applicants MUST apply online via this GSMA site link

For more information, please visit GSMA Ecosystem Accelerator Innovation Fund.