GSMA Launches Innovation Fund to Boost Clean Energy and Digital Inclusion in Emerging Economies

Grants of £100,000 to £200,000 Announced for Green and Digital Solutions​

New Delhi, February 24: The Global System for Mobile Communications Association on Tuesday announced the launch of a new Innovation Fund aimed at accelerating the green transition in low and middle income countries. The fund will offer grants ranging from £100,000 to £200,000 to support small and growing enterprises that leverage mobile and digital technologies to drive sustainable development.

The initiative targets enterprises operating across Africa, Central and South America, and South and Southeast Asia, with a focus on scaling practical and commercially viable solutions.

Focus on Clean Energy, Circular Economy and Climate Action​

According to the association, the fund will back digital solutions that expand access to clean energy, promote circularity in mobile devices, and advance digital inclusion and climate action. The objective is to support innovations that address environmental challenges while strengthening connectivity and affordability for underserved communities.

Selected enterprises will receive grants over a 15 to 18 month period. In addition to financial support, recipients will gain access to technical assistance, investor connections, and partnership opportunities with mobile network operators. Support will also include monitoring and evaluation guidance, along with visibility through GSMA platforms.

Eligibility Criteria and Funding Structure​

Eligibility is limited to for profit small and growing enterprises with up to 250 employees. Applicants must use mobile or digital technology as a core component of their solutions and demonstrate commercial revenue as well as active users.

Enterprises must also commit to contributing at least 25 percent in matching funding to qualify for the grant.

Applications will be accepted from February through May 2026, with a submission deadline set for April 6, 2026.

Supporting Sustainable and Inclusive Growth​

Philippe Bellordre, Acting Head of Mobile for Development at GSMA, said the Innovation Fund represents a direct investment in enterprises using mobile and digital technologies to enable a clean energy transition and advance digital inclusion. He added that the fund also aims to scale circular solutions that extend the life of mobile devices and make connectivity more affordable.

The Innovation Fund will prioritise commercially viable innovations such as renewable energy solutions, smart metering, device refurbishment models, and responsible e waste management.

The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and underscores the role of mobile technology in promoting inclusive and sustainable development across emerging markets.