The Expo City Dubai Foundation’s Global Innovators Programme is currently accepting applications from impact-focused startups and social enterprises, offering grants reaching up to US$100,000. The initiative supports innovative, scalable solutions addressing critical global challenges, with particular emphasis on the Global South.
Read more about Opportunities
Building on Expo Live’s mission, the Expo City Dubai Foundation provides financial backing to entrepreneurs tackling significant social, environmental, and humanitarian issues. African innovators will find this an exceptional chance to access international visibility, expand their impact, and collaborate with a foundation that has supported changemakers across more than 90 countries. Previous recipients have benefited from mentorship opportunities, connections to global networks, and comprehensive business development support.
Focus Areas for This Program
The 2025 cohort prioritises solutions addressing extreme heat within humanitarian and emergency contexts.
Eligible innovations include:
- Infrastructure or shelters providing cooling capabilities.
- Energy systems functioning without grid connections.
- Healthcare technologies addressing heat-related health threats.
- Solutions enhancing water and food security in high-temperature, difficult conditions.
Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
Who Can Apply?
Eligible candidates must satisfy these requirements:
- Operate as a registered social enterprise, startup, SME, or nonprofit organisation.
- Show measurable social, environmental, or humanitarian outcomes.
- Have progressed beyond the concept phase to the prototype or implementation stage.
- Preference given to organisations operating in or originating from the Global South.
- Possess adequate organisational capability, defined impact objectives, and viable plans for scaling or replication.
Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
What Recipients Gain
Successful applicants will access:
- Project grants of up to US$100,000.
- Expert mentorship and guidance through the Foundation’s extensive network.
- Development assistance and strategic partnership opportunities.
- International exposure via Expo City Dubai’s platforms and innovation community.
Application closes: 23 November 2025
Click HERE () to apply.
Got something you want to read about on our platform? Contact us: [email protected]