Written by: Basant El-Farmawy
The Center for Climate Research and Innovation has launched a new call for expressions of interest from innovators, researchers, and startups in Africa, as part of the 2026 AI for Climate Innovation program. The initiative aims to enhance climate resilience and address growing environmental challenges by employing artificial intelligence technologies and data-driven solutions.
Focus areas and financial support
The program targets initiatives that have reached the pilot phase or beyond, making it intended for projects that have demonstrated practical progress rather than purely theoretical ideas. The program provides selected innovators with opportunities for technical assistance, mentoring, and research collaboration, as well as connecting them with networks and partners, and potential expansion grants worth up to $200,000 USD, subject to eligibility criteria and resource availability.
Practical applications and supported technologies
The initiative focuses on several key sectors including early warning systems and climate risks, climate-smart agriculture, water resource management, environmental monitoring, and community adaptation to climate change. These technologies help institutions and researchers better understand climate risks, improve forecasts, enhance adaptation strategies, and support evidence-based environmental decision-making.
Application mechanism and continuous acceptance of requests
Expressions of interest are accepted on a rolling basis with no fixed closing date, allowing qualified applicants to submit their projects as soon as they are ready. Interested parties are advised to review the official online application form and provide a clear description of the innovation, the problem it addresses, the target groups, and evidence of progress made in the pilot phase.
