Introduction

In the pursuit of fostering innovation and social impact, the UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator Programme for 2024 has opened its doors. This unique initiative, launched in 2019, is a six-month accelerator programme designed to empower startups and businesses committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for children and young people. Led by UNICEF in Ghana, with support from KOICA and implementation by MEST Africa, this programme goes beyond traditional accelerators, integrating intense business acceleration with technical expertise in key social sectors.

Empowering Impactful Ventures

The UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator Programme is a beacon for impactful startups in Ghana. Targeting those with a technology-centric approach, the initiative aims to catalyze growth and innovation aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The emphasis lies on social impact and product development, encouraging open-source solutions.

Geographical Inclusivity and Diversity

Geographically inclusive, the programme warmly welcomes diverse ventures from all regions of Ghana. With a particular focus on empowering women-led businesses, it seeks to create an inclusive ecosystem that transcends traditional boundaries. The accelerator acknowledges the strength in diversity and invites startups related to Health Tech, EdTech, Urban Tech, Climate Action, Fintech, and WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) to apply.

Eligibility Criteria

To be part of this transformative journey, startups need to meet specific criteria:

- Operational for 1+ year

- Registered business in Ghana (no NGOs, foundations, or individuals)

- Technology as the core enabler of the business

- Business model with a social impact addressing at least one SDG

- Open-source solutions or a willingness to open-source their solutions

- Encouragement for startups with female founders/co-founders

- Inclusion of startups from all regions of Ghana

Target Areas

The programme focuses on key areas, including:

- HealthTech

- EdTech

- UrbanTech

- Climate Action

- Child Protection

- FinTech

- WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene)

Benefits and Support

Participating startups gain access to a multitude of benefits:

- Funding: Each startup receives up to GHS 32,000 for product development

- Investment: Opportunities for global funding, including the UNICEF Venture Fund

- Partnerships: Access to a wide network of UN System partners

- Growth: Intense, hands-on practical business acceleration

- Knowledge: Direct access to resources and social sector program experts

- Resources: Technology perks tailored for participating startups

For more information and details on how to apply visit (link)