Halcyon Climate Resilience & Food Security in Africa Fellowship 2026 for African Startups

Application Volume: Approximately 3,500 applicants
Application Deadline: November 20, 2025

Applications are officially open for the 2026 edition of the Halcyon Climate Resilience & Food Security in Africa Fellowship. This program is designed specifically for African entrepreneurs who are innovating sustainable solutions aimed at enhancing climate adaptation, resilience, and food security across the continent.

The 2026 Fellowship will offer a blended format of programming. Entrepreneurs chosen for the fellowship will participate in an initial one-week, in-person residency held in Accra, Ghana. This will be followed by five days of online virtual sessions and will conclude with a second one-week, in-person residency taking place in Nairobi, Kenya. This hybrid approach ensures a comprehensive and immersive experience connecting founders with key resources, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

Focus Areas and Eligible Sectors

The fellowship welcomes innovations centered on climate adaptation and food security, with eligible sectors including but not limited to:

• Climate-smart agriculture and sustainable food systems
• Renewable energy and resilient energy storage technologies
• Adaptive infrastructure paired with green building solutions
• Climate intelligence platforms and early-warning mechanisms
• Water technologies focused on water security and resilient water management
• Blue economy initiatives and coastal resilience efforts
• Other related sectors addressing climate and food security challenges

Eligibility Requirements

• Geographic Location: Applicants must be based in Africa.
• Business Stage: Ventures should have a functioning Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and demonstrate realistic scalability potential. Evidence of early traction is required, such as user feedback, pilot projects, Letters of Intent (LOIs), or revenue generation.
• Team Composition: Applications can include up to one Co-Founder. The applicant must serve as the CEO or hold the highest decision-making authority within the company.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is mandatory, as all programming and communication will be conducted in English.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 21 years old when the program begins.
• Commitment: Participants must commit to attending all residencies, events, and virtual sessions as part of the program schedule.
• Impact Focus: The venture’s product or service should contribute meaningfully to achieving one or more of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Program Benefits

• $10,000 worth of Amazon Web Services (AWS) credits to support technology infrastructure
• $6,000 equity-free stipend awarded per venture
• Hands-on workshops led by industry experts covering topics such as product-market fit, capital strategy, and leadership development
• Access to seasoned professional advisors for personalized guidance
• Networking opportunities with investors and a wide range of climate sector stakeholders
• Inclusion in Halcyon’s extensive global network of over 600 founders
• Continued support and resources post-fellowship—refer to the Alumni page for details

Important Dates and Application Timeline

For additional details and to apply, please Visit the Official Webpage of the Halcyon Climate Resilience & Food Security in Africa Fellowshi.