The global narrative around climate change is shifting from crisis management to strategic investment. For Africa, where energy access remains a fundamental hurdle for development and economic empowerment, funding for smart, scalable solutions is critical.
Fundación Avina has launched the Impulsouth Initiative funding call, a significant opportunity for researchers and practitioners across Sub-Saharan Africa who are actively working to connect vulnerable communities with clean, reliable energy.
This initiative is a powerful collaboration led by Fundación Avina and the United Nations University - Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS), with backing from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). It seeks to unearth and analyze the real-world success stories driving the adoption of Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) where it matters most.
The African Imperative
Africa's energy challenge is not just one of supply; it's one of access, cost, and resilience. This call directly empowers African expertise to lead the intellectual charge by asking: What works?
There is a need for evidence-based case studies to showcase models where local businesses, NGOs, and government agencies have successfully integrated RETs into communities, be it solar mini-grids, efficient cooking solutions, or decentralized power systems. The findings will provide a crucial blueprint for scaling successful projects across the entire continent.
Funding Details: From Research to Real-World Impact
The Impulsouth initiative is seeking research that is grounded in practice, meaning proposals must focus on mature or recently completed interventions where the impact can already be measured and observed.
| Opportunity Snapshot | Details |
| Funding Amount | $20,000 – $40,000 USD per project |
| Number of Projects | 6–8 research projects to be funded globally |
| Eligible Regions | Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America & the Caribbean |
| Submission Deadline | January 12, 2026 (8 pm UTC) |
| Key Requirement | Proposals must be submitted in English. |
The Questions Shaping Africa’s Energy Future
Researchers are invited to explore the mechanisms of success (or failure) across several critical areas. Your research should provide actionable insights on:
Adoption Strategies: What specific methods enable vulnerable groups (small-scale entrepreneurs, low-income households, women, and youth) to embrace and sustain RETs?
Innovation Dynamics: Analyzing the reasons why certain innovations thrive while others struggle to gain traction.
The Ecosystem: How do partnerships, financial models, regulations, and market demand interact to shape successful adoption at scale?
Inclusivity: Detailing the specific social and economic benefits experienced by women, youth, and low-income populations.
Your Call to Action
African researchers and practitioners are uniquely positioned to answer these questions. Your work holds the key to accelerating the continent’s just and inclusive energy transition. Do not let this opportunity pass.
Don't Miss the Information Session!
Register for the live information session on December 10, 2025, at 2 pm UTC, to get answers to your questions directly from the Impulsouth team.