Applications are now open for the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy, a global innovation prize that seeks to identify and support high-growth, technology-enabled companies transforming circular economy practices across Africa.

With US$2 million in total prize funding, the competition recognises commercially viable businesses that reduce waste, extend the lifecycle of materials, and create measurable environmental, economic and social impact through circular business models.

Applications are now open for the Evidence for Climate Action (E4CA): COP31 Call for Proposals, inviting researchers, evaluators and practitioners from around the world to contribute evidence that can inform international climate policy discussions at COP31.

Applications are now open for TerraFoundry Cohort 2, a six-month climate-tech accelerator designed to support high-potential startups developing innovative solutions for South Africa's green economy.

Delivered by French South African Tech Labs (FSAT Labs), the programme helps Western Cape-based startups strengthen their products, validate their markets, prepare for investment and access regional and international growth opportunities.

Applications are now open for UPSTREAM Open Call 2: Prevention & Zero-Waste, a cascade funding opportunity under the UPSTREAM Horizon Europe project that supports regional and local public authorities in designing, piloting and scaling innovative solutions to prevent plastic pollution in rivers and connected waterways.

With €140,000 available under this call, UPSTREAM aims to help regions implement circular economy and zero-waste measures that reduce plastic leakage at source while contributing to the objectives of the EU Mission Restore Our Ocean and Waters.

Applications will soon open for the BiOrbic Industry Collaboration Call 2026, an initiative led by BiOrbic – Ireland's National Bioeconomy Research Centre to accelerate collaborative research and innovation that supports the transition to a sustainable bioeconomy.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation is inviting applications for its Industrial Biotechnology and Environmental Biotechnology Project Grants 2026, supporting ambitious research projects that address major scientific and industrial challenges while advancing sustainable biotechnology solutions.

With up to DKK 4.3 million available per project, the programme seeks to accelerate high-impact research that has the potential to improve industrial processes, strengthen environmental sustainability and contribute to the future bioeconomy.

Call Reference: HORIZON-CL2-2026-01-HERITAGE-02

Overview

The European Commission, under the Horizon Europe Programme, has launched a call for proposals to strengthen Europe's cultural and creative industries by supporting innovative projects that help creative startups scale, commercialise disruptive innovations and build stronger innovation ecosystems.

Applications are now open for the STREETS Global Awards 2026, an international awards programme celebrating organisations that are creating measurable social impact through hospitality and tourism.

The awards recognise social enterprises, mission-driven businesses, non-profit organisations and NGOs that are using tourism as a catalyst for community development, youth empowerment, sustainable livelihoods and inclusive economic growth.

Shape the Future of Africa Through Data, Evidence and Strategic Foresight

Africa's future will be shaped by the decisions made today. As governments, businesses, researchers and development organisations respond to rapid technological, economic, environmental and social change, there is an increasing need for evidence-based decision-making that enables long-term planning and resilient development.

Applications are now open for the Build with Gemini XPRIZE Hackathon, a global innovation challenge inviting entrepreneurs, developers, researchers, startups and small organisations to build AI-native businesses capable of solving real-world problems.