GSMA Opens £200,000 Fund to Support Mobile-Led Climate Solutions in Emerging Markets
The GSMA has opened applications for a new innovation fund targeting enterprises that use mobile technology to address twin challenges of energy poverty and digital exclusion across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
The GSMA Innovation Fund for Green Transition for Mobile will distribute grants ranging from £100,000 to £200,000 to small and growing companies developing commercially viable solutions in clean energy access and mobile device circularity. The initiative, funded by GSMA and backed by its member network, accepts applications until 6 April 2026.
Addressing Energy and Connectivity Barriers
Nearly three billion people globally live within mobile internet coverage zones but remain offline due to obstacles including limited digital literacy, handset costs, and inadequate electricity access. In many African markets, unreliable power supply prevents communities from charging devices, creating a fundamental barrier to digital participation and economic opportunity.
The fund emphasizes what organizers describe as a “twin transition” approach, recognizing that energy infrastructure and digital connectivity must advance together. Philippe Bellordre, who serves as Acting Head of Mobile for Development at GSMA, explained in a statement that the organization is backing enterprises using mobile technology to enable clean energy transitions while developing circular solutions that make connectivity more affordable for underserved populations.
Two Priority Areas
Eligible projects fall into two categories. The first covers digital solutions expanding access to reliable, clean energy in underserved regions. This includes renewable energy systems, smart metering, mini-grids, and productive-use energy solutions that leverage mobile platforms for payments, monitoring, or service delivery.
The second focus addresses device lifecycle management and affordability. The fund seeks circular economy models including repair services, refurbishment programs, take-back schemes, leasing arrangements, and responsible e-waste management. By extending device lifespans, these solutions simultaneously reduce manufacturing emissions and lower ownership costs for low-income users.
Support Package and Requirements
Beyond grant capital, selected enterprises receive technical assistance, participation in peer learning programs, introductions to mobile network operators and investors, and visibility through GSMA publications and events including Mobile World Congress. Project timelines typically span 15 to 18 months.
Applicants must operate as for-profit entities with fewer than 250 employees and demonstrate how mobile or digital technology—including artificial intelligence, internet-of-things, or basic connectivity—forms a core component of their solution. Organizations must provide matching contributions equal to at least 25 percent of their requested grant amount.
The fund particularly encourages applications from female-founded or female-led ventures, as well as locally rooted enterprises committed to building domestic capacity and employment. Previous GSMA grant recipients may apply if their earlier grants have concluded.
For African entrepreneurs working at the intersection of energy access and mobile innovation, the fund represents both capital and strategic partnerships. Nigeria’s energy deficit and handset affordability challenges make it a relevant market for solutions the fund seeks to advance.
Full eligibility criteria and application details are available on the GSMA Innovation Fund website. The GSMA is a global industry association representing mobile operators and ecosystem stakeholders, with a stated mission to advance inclusive and sustainable connectivity while supporting the mobile sector’s net-zero emissions targets.
