Siemens Stiftung Announces SESA Call for Entrepreneurs 2022

Targeting small and medium-sized businesses with a focus on sustainable energy solutions in Ghana, Malawi, Morocco, and South Africa, Siemens Stiftung is launching its inaugural “SESA Call for Entrepreneurs” on behalf of the Smart Energy Solutions for Africa (SESA) Consortium.

Applications are especially encouraged from women-owned businesses.

Access to dependable, affordable, and sustainable electricity has proven difficult for rural African populations. The SESA project, which is supported by the European Commission, intends to test, validate, and then reproduce creative approaches and business models to quicken the green transition throughout Africa. It began operations in nine African nations—Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Morocco, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, and Tanzania—in October 2021 for a 48-month period.

Economic growth in rural areas is highly connected with access to energy for productive uses that add value by raising productivity or income and job creation. The solutions for the Productive Use of Energy (PUE) are the main subject of this “Call for Entrepreneurs.” Ghana, Malawi, Morocco, and South Africa, the four participating nations, have each created a unique national challenge with a stronger local focus, concentrating in particular areas to address their regional dynamics.

In addition to other incentives, the entrepreneurs chosen through this call will receive investment ranging from €50,000 to €70,000 per business over an 18-month period. Additionally, they have the chance to enroll in the SESA Incubator Program to strengthen their organization in accordance with their particular requirements.

According to Dr. Nina Smidt, Managing Director and Spokesperson of Siemens Stiftung, “The call harnesses social entrepreneurs’ talents, skills, and innovations to not only combat climate change but also pave the road for social and economic growth in rural areas.” “This shift is driven by women. Supporting female-led businesses facilitates the inclusion of vulnerable populations more at danger from climate change and, in turn, speeds up the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.

Ms. Chikondi Khonje, a SESA partner and the founder of Going Green Malawi, urges other business owners: “Applying for this call gives you the chance to grow your company without worrying about loan payback. By introducing you to potential business mentors, partners, and investors, it will also provide you the wings you need to soar to new heights more quickly.

On September 26, the “Call for Entrepreneurs” will go live and continue through November 20, 2022. In February 2023, the SESA Incubator Program will begin.

To find out more, click here.