Towards Improving Livelihoods for Small-Holder Farmers in East Africa
Closing the opportunity gap for young people in East Africa by scaling distributed renewable energy solutions for smallholder farmers.
About the Program
Building on the success of Phase 1, Ashoka East Africa, with the support of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation in partnership with E4Impact, is launching Phase 2 of our transformative program supporting innovators at the intersection of distributed renewable energy (DRE) and agriculture.
Mission
To encourage social entrepreneurs and innovators to scale DRE solutions that enhance productivity, resilience, and incomes for smallholder farmers across East Africa, while building a robust ecosystem of collaboration and systems-level change.
This 6-month program combines capacity building, strategic mentorship from leading social entrepreneurs and Ashoka Fellows, ecosystem connections, and competitive seed funding to accelerate impact.
Building on Proven Impact
Phase 1 of this project (June 2023 - Present) laid a strong foundation for transformative change:
Innovators Mapped & Documented
Innovators Supported Through Intensive Capacity Building
Co-Created Cross-Country Projects Funded
New Ashoka Fellow Elected
Access our Phase 1 Innovator Mapping Report
What Phase 2 Offers
Expert-Led Workshops
Comprehensive workshops covering Scaling Strategies, Market & Financing, and Systems Change designed specifically for DRE solutions in agricultural value chains.
Strategic Mentorship
One-on-one guidance from leading experts including Ashoka Fellows and senior thought leaders who have successfully scaled social innovations in energy and agriculture.
Competitive Showcase
Present your strategy at our closing convening. The top strategies may receive seed funding to accelerate implementation.
Ecosystem Connections
Direct connections to investors, policymakers, technical partners, and off-takers. Plus, support to attend priority ecosystem events across East Africa.
Strategy Development
Develop a concrete systems change strategy with expert support tailored to your innovation's unique needs and growth stage.
Visibility & Storytelling
Your innovation will be featured through strategic communications, social media, and ecosystem amplification to raise your profile and attract support.
Who Should Apply:
Passionate innovators and social entrepreneurs who are:
1.Based in or operating in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, or Rwanda
2.Offering a Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) solution (e.g., solar, biogas, mini-grids)
3.Are applying solution within agricultural value chains, improving smallholder farmer productivity, resilience, or income
4.Have a working prototype, pilot, or early implementation (no conceptual ideas), with an operational structure
5.A founder or decision-maker in the venture
6.Committed to full participation and engagement in the 6-month program
7.Demonstrate strong ethical and social impact commitment
Program Timeline
March 2026
Applications Open
- Applications Open: Submit your application or nominate a qualified innovator
- Application deadline: March 20, 2026
March - April
Selection & Due Diligence
- Selection & Due Diligence: 25 innovators selected through a comprehensive review process
April
Virtual Onboarding
- Virtual Onboarding: Meet your cohort and program mentors
- Kick-Off Convening: In-person event launches the program
April - September 2026
Capacity Building
- Capacity building:
- Horizontal Changemaking Curriculum
- Venture-Building Track
- Mentorship Track
September 2026
Closing Event
- Closing Event: Spotlight learning from the program
- Showcase: Present your strategies and compete for continuation funding
October 2026
Documentation & Reflection
- Documentation & Reflection: Capture learning, outcomes, and impact stories
Our Partners
A global philanthropic organization dedicated to promoting a just, equitable, and sustainable society. The foundation has been instrumental in accelerating the adoption of distributed renewable energy to improve energy access, economic opportunities, and climate resilience in underserved communities across Africa.
Our capacity building partner brings venture-building and enterprise support expertise, delivering structured programs that strengthen business models, strategies, and readiness for scale among social entrepreneurs.
How to apply
Apply Directly: If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to commit to this transformative journey, submit your application using the link below.
Nominate Someone: Know an exceptional innovator who would benefit from this program? Nominate them through the same application form.
Application Deadline: March 20th, 2026
Selected innovators will be notified by early April 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a cost to participate?
No. The program is fully funded by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. There are no participation fees.
2. Do I need to have a registered organization?
Yes. Applicants must have a legally registered entity (e.g., company, cooperative, or organization) in one of the eligible countries to qualify. Proof of registration will be required during the application process.
3. What if my solution is still at the prototype stage?
Applicants must have at least a tested and functional prototype or pilot that has been implemented with real beneficiaries. Purely conceptual ideas or untested prototypes will not be considered. Evidence of traction, user engagement, or early results will be required during the application process.
4. Can I apply if I'm based outside the capital city?
Absolutely! We especially encourage applications from innovators working in rural and peri-urban areas across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.
5. What if my innovation focuses primarily on agriculture but includes some renewable energy components?
Perfect! We're specifically looking for solutions at the intersection of DRE and agriculture. As long as renewable energy plays a meaningful role in your agricultural value chain solution, you're eligible.
6. How much time will the program require?
You should plan to commit to attending 6 workshops, regular mentorship sessions (approximately 2-4 hours per month), 2 convenings (kick-off and closing), and time for strategy development and ecosystem engagement activities over the 6-month period.
Questions
We're here to help! For questions about the program or application process, please contact: