Africa faces urgent climate challenges, but it also holds huge potential to lead with climate-smart innovations that boost livelihoods and grow economies.
From solar-powered storage for smallholder farmers to cutting-edge carbon removal, African entrepreneurs are reimagining key sectors and creating real investment opportunities.
At the heart of this transformation is Catalyst Fund, an Official Nominator to The Earthshot Prize. Their venture capital fund backs early-stage climate tech startups in Africa. Through capital, tailored venture building support, and network access, Catalyst Fund empowers innovators like 2024 Earthshot Prize Winner Keep IT Cool to scale breakthrough solutions across climate adaptation, food security, waste management and more.
Catalyst Fund’s work with startup founders, coupled with data from Africa: The Big Deal have been helping The Earthshot Prize identify promising solutions and better understand the African investment landscape since 2023.
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Below, Ken Ngetha, Venture Building Engagement Lead & Maelis Carraro, Managing Partner from Catalyst Fund, share insights into Africa’s climate startup scene and the latest investment trends.