The Future of Energy Conference (FEC) Innovation Challenge 2026 is now open for applications, offering young innovators a unique opportunity to showcase their sustainable energy solutions, with a deadline of May 31, 2026. This prestigious challenge provides a platform for African nationals to present their innovative ideas and compete for cash prizes, mentorship, and incubation support. By applying for the FEC Innovation Challenge, young innovators can take their sustainable energy projects to the next level and contribute to Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
About the Opportunity
The Future of Energy Conference (FEC) is a leading energy event in Africa, bringing together policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to discuss the latest trends and innovations in the energy sector. The FEC Innovation Challenge is a key component of the conference, aiming to identify and support innovative solutions that can help address Africa’s energy challenges, such as energy access, clean cooking, and renewable energy. By participating in the challenge, young innovators can gain valuable exposure, networking opportunities, and access to funding and mentorship, which can help them scale up their projects and create a positive impact on their communities.
The FEC Innovation Challenge is organized by the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), a leading energy think tank in Africa, in partnership with other organizations, such as the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPA). The challenge is designed to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the energy sector, with a focus on sustainable energy solutions that can help reduce carbon emissions and promote economic development in Africa. By supporting young innovators and their projects, the FEC Innovation Challenge can help create a pipeline of sustainable energy solutions that can be replicated and scaled up across the continent.
The FEC Innovation Challenge is a unique opportunity for young innovators to showcase their projects and compete for recognition and support. The challenge is open to African nationals aged 15 to 35, who are working on innovative energy solutions, such as solar power, wind energy, hydro power, geothermal energy, and energy efficiency. By participating in the challenge, young innovators can demonstrate their creativity, skills, and passion for sustainable energy, and contribute to the development of a low-carbon economy in Africa.
Who Can Apply
The FEC Innovation Challenge is open to African nationals who are working on innovative energy solutions, and meet the eligibility criteria outlined below.
- African nationals aged 15 to 35, living on the continent or abroad, can apply for the challenge, as long as they have a working model or a pilot-tested concept.
- Applicants can be individuals or teams, but must have a clear and innovative energy solution that can be presented and defended.
- Applicants must be available to participate in the Final Pitch Event at FEC 2026 in Accra, Ghana, on August 25 and 26, 2026, if selected as finalists.
What You Will Gain
By participating in the FEC Innovation Challenge, young innovators can gain valuable recognition, funding, and support for their projects, as outlined below.
- Winners will receive cash prizes, which can be used to scale up their projects and create a positive impact on their communities.
- Finalists will have access to mentorship and incubation support through ACEP’s Climate Innovation Hub, which can help them refine their business models and secure funding.
- Participants will have the opportunity to present their projects to over 1,000 policymakers, investors, and industry leaders, which can help them secure funding, partnerships, and recognition.
- Participants will retain full intellectual property rights over their innovations, which can help them protect their ideas and secure funding and partnerships.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to showcase your innovative energy solution and compete for recognition and support. Deadline: May 31, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to prepare and submit your application.
How to Apply for Future of Energy Conference (FEC) Innovation Challenge 2026 for young Innovators.
To apply for the FEC Innovation Challenge, follow these steps: review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines, prepare a clear and concise pitch deck and video, and submit your application online through the ACEP website. Make sure to provide all the required information and supporting documents, such as a resume, a business plan, and a video showcasing your project.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The Future of Energy Conference (FEC) Innovation Challenge 2026 is a unique opportunity for young innovators to showcase their sustainable energy solutions and compete for recognition and support. By applying for the challenge, you can take your project to the next level and contribute to Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy. So, do not hesitate to apply and take the first step towards creating a sustainable energy future for Africa – apply now and make your mark on the energy sector.
