OceanHub Africa and The Coca-Cola Foundation have launched a Pan-African Call for Bold Ideas in Plastic Circularity. This programme seeks science-driven solutions that can transform how plastic waste is reduced, recycled, reused, or repurposed across African coastal and urban environments. With up to $120,000 in catalytic funding and hands-on venture building support, this is a prime opportunity for innovators ready to turn research or early concepts into market-ready impact ventures.
Plastic pollution remains a pressing environmental challenge across Africa, affecting oceans, cities, wildlife, and communities. Corporate partners like The Coca-Cola Foundation are investing in circular systems and innovation to support sustainable waste solutions. This call combines OceanHub Africa’s venture-building expertise with Coca-Cola’s sustainability resources to help African innovators test and commercialise circularity solutions.
Benefits
Funding & Financial Support
Funding is structured in three phases:
- CAPEX Support: Up to $20,000 USD for essential capital and infrastructure.
- Operations & Pilot Support: Up to $20,000 USD for operational costs and testing in real environments.
- Commercialisation Funding: Up to $80,000 USD (repayable grant) for scaling a validated solution to market.
Venture Building Support
Through the program, innovators receive:
- Technical mentorship on business model development, financial planning, and operational strategy.
- Testing, validation & pilot opportunities in relevant African contexts.
- Networking access to corporate partners, investors, and impact-oriented ecosystems.
- One-on-one coaching from industry and sustainability experts.
This support helps early-stage innovations move from concept to commercial application, increasing their sustainability and potential for impact.
Eligibility
The programme is open to innovators across Africa with science-based ideas addressing plastic waste challenges. Eligibility includes:
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- Individuals or teams with bold, science-driven ideas related to plastic circularity.
- Projects that address plastic waste reduction, recycling, reuse, or circular economy models in African coastal or urban settings.
- Applicants must be able to submit a video pitch (max. 5 minutes) alongside other application materials.
This call welcomes both researchers and early-stage ventures aiming to refine, pilot, or scale impactful solutions.
Program Timeline & Structure
- Call Opens: 17 December 2025
- Applications Close: 15 February 2026 (23:59 SAST)
- Evaluation: February 2026
- Venture Building Phase: March–December 2026 (hybrid format)
- Acceleration Evaluation: April 2026
During the program, selected teams participate in a hybrid venture building journey combining mentorship, business support, and real-world testing.
Click HERE to Apply
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Disclaimer: Edfrica does not have direct influence nor guarantee the outcome of this application following the support you receive from us
