The FEC Innovation Challenge 2026 is a platform for young African innovators to present transformative energy solutions at the Future of Energy Conference in Accra, Ghana. This competition highlights, supports, and accelerates low-carbon and energy solutions tailored for Africa, offering winners cash prizes, mentorship, and incubation support.
The challenge is organized by the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) as part of the Future of Energy Conference (FEC) 2026, a major continental event focused on Africa’s energy future. The conference brings together policymakers, investors, industry leaders, researchers, and innovators under the theme “Powering Africa’s Industrial Transformation.”
FEC Innovation Challenge Benefits
- Present your idea to over 1,000 policymakers, investors, and industry leaders
- Access to cash prizes
- Mentorship and incubation support through ACEP’s Climate Innovation Hub
- Keep full intellectual property rights over your innovation
- Global exposure at a major energy conference
- Networking with industry leaders
- Potential funding and support to scale solutions
FEC Innovation Challenge Eligibility Criteria
- African nationals aged 15 to 35
- Living on the continent or abroad
- Working on sustainable energy access, clean cooking, circular economy ideas, or lithium-ion battery innovation
- At any stage from a working model to a pilot-tested concept
- Must present practical and scalable solutions, not just ideas
How to Apply for FEC Innovation Challenge
- Submit your application online via the official application link
- Applications are open from April 24 to May 31, 2026
- For more information, contact [email protected]
- Download the concept note for detailed guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the FEC Innovation Challenge. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the FEC Innovation Challenge?
The FEC Innovation Challenge is a pitch competition and showcase platform where selected participants present groundbreaking energy solutions to experts and decision-makers. It focuses on identifying scalable innovations that can improve energy access, increase efficiency, and support sustainability.
Who can apply for the FEC Innovation Challenge?
African nationals aged 15 to 35, whether living on the continent or abroad, can apply. The challenge targets young innovators, startups, entrepreneurs, researchers, and professionals in energy-related fields.
What are the focus areas of the challenge?
Participants are encouraged to submit solutions in renewable energy technologies, smart grids, digital energy systems, industrial energy efficiency, clean energy transition solutions, and innovative financing models.
What are the benefits of participating?
Finalists present their ideas to over 1,000 policymakers, investors, and industry leaders. Winners receive cash prizes, mentorship, and incubation support through ACEP’s Climate Innovation Hub while keeping full intellectual property rights.
What is the deadline to apply?
Applications are open from April 24 to May 31, 2026. The exact deadline may vary, so check the official site regularly for updates.
Where will the final pitch event take place?
The final pitch event will be held at the Future of Energy Conference (FEC) 2026 in Accra, Ghana, on August 25 and 26, 2026.
What are the two tracks of the challenge?
Track 1 is the Pan-African Low Carbon Innovation Track, welcoming ideas in power systems, digital energy, and industrial energy. Track 2 is the Afro-Hackathon Track, focusing on lithium-ion battery design and value chain development.
How are applications evaluated?
The selection process includes application review, virtual interviews, and an Innovathon that includes a case series. The process ends with a Final Pitch Event at FEC 2026.
Is the FEC Innovation Challenge fully funded?
Yes, the challenge is fully funded. Finalists receive support to attend the conference, and winners gain access to cash prizes, mentorship, and incubation support.
How can I apply for the FEC Innovation Challenge?
You can apply online through the official application link on the ACEP website. For more information, contact [email protected] or download the concept note for detailed guidelines.
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