In a significant milestone for Nigeria’s sustainability journey, three innovative startups have been named winners of the National Phase of the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP) at a prestigious awards ceremony held in Lagos. The event marked the successful conclusion of the programme’s third cohort, highlighting Nigeria’s growing leadership in clean technology innovation.
The winners—Allgreen Ivy Limited, One Grid Energies, and Rekool Access Technology—each received cash prizes totaling $32,500 for their pioneering efforts in addressing climate and environmental challenges through technology.
Allgreen Ivy Limited emerged as the national champion, securing $10,000 in funding. The startup was also recognized as the Best Female-led Startup, emphasizing the importance of gender inclusivity in Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. First runner-up, One Grid Energies, took home $7,500 and was awarded the title of Best Climate Mitigation Startup, while Rekool Access Technology claimed the second runner-up position with $5,000.
The competition, championed by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), aims to inspire entrepreneurs to develop practical solutions that promote Nigeria’s transition to a sustainable, net-zero future. The initiative underscores the country’s commitment to fostering innovative approaches to combat climate change and environmental degradation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Akinwande Akinsulire, Head of Startup Support at CcHub Africa, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the programme. “This initiative is implemented in partnership with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and CcHub Africa. It provides a platform for startups to accelerate their solutions and scale impact,” he said.
The event not only celebrated technological ingenuity but also reinforced Nigeria’s potential as a hub for green innovation. As the country continues to face environmental challenges, these startups symbolize hope for a cleaner, more sustainable future driven by local ingenuity and international support.
