(AfDB) - The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program, a joint initiative of the African Development Bank and the Global Center on Adaptation, has launched a call for applications for the third edition of the YouthADAPT Challenge, which seeks to support young entrepreneurs driving solutions to tackle climate change.

The annual YouthADAPT competition invites young entrepreneurs leading micro, small, and medium enterprises in Africa to submit innovative solutions and business ideas that can drive climate change adaptation and resilience across the continent.

This year’s call focuses on female-owned enterprises pioneering Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies such as artificial intelligence; big data analytics; virtual reality; robotics; internet of things; quantum computing; additive manufacturing; blockchain, and fifth-generation wireless for climate adaptation.

With support from the Africa Climate Change Fund, hosted by the Bank, the winners will be awarded $100,000 each, alongside mentorship and coaching to further their climate change adaptation solutions and business ideas. They will also join the YouthADAPT Alumni Network to learn from a dynamic community of youth entrepreneurs throughout Africa.

To be eligible, applicants must be between the ages of 18 to 35. Their ventures should be youth-led and offer tangible solutions to real-life climate challenges. They must be registered and operational in Africa, with at least two years’ worth of accounts.

Apply by visiting the YouthADAPT competition portal.  The closing date for applications is 5 November 2023 at 17:00 GMT.An information session is scheduled for 23 October 2023 at 11:00 GMT to share details about the YouthADAPT Challenge 2023. This session will cover eligibility criteria, the application process, important deadlines, and the advantages of participation, such as grants, mentorship, and business development services

About Africa Climate Change Fund

The Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF or Fund) is a multi-donor trust fund well positioned to contribute to the achievement of the African Development Bank’s goal to triple its climate financing efforts and foster its drive for a climate-resilient Africa. Visit ACCF’s website:  https://accf.afdb.org/

About the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA)

The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) is an international organization that works as a solutions broker to accelerate action and support for adaptation solutions, from the international to the local, in partnership with the public and private sectors. For more information, please go to www.gca.org