University students in Kenya with innovative ideas to tackle environmental challenges are invited to apply for the Cleantech Innovation Competition 2026. Organised by the Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) in partnership with the Embassy of Switzerland in Kenya, SICPA, and Strathmore University, the competition supports early-stage cleantech ideas with the potential to address climate and environmental challenges while creating sustainable businesses.
Successful participants will gain access to business development support, mentorship, industry networks, and opportunities to connect with potential investors.
About the Competition
The Cleantech Innovation Competition is designed to encourage university students to transform innovative ideas into viable cleantech businesses capable of delivering environmental, social, and economic impact.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and focuses on innovations that contribute to climate action, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, water management, waste management, commercial forestry, and other green growth priorities.
Applications are open to ideas at the ideation stage that demonstrate strong potential for scalability, climate impact, innovation, and job creation.
What Participants Receive
Selected participants will benefit from:
- Business development and accelerator support
- Capacity building and skills training
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Access to investors and financing opportunities
- Networking with ecosystem partners and fellow innovators
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be a university student in Kenya
- Present an innovation at the ideation stage
- Demonstrate how the idea addresses an environmental or climate-related challenge
