AESPP Continental Innovation — Business Innovation Programme (Cohort 1)

About

A 12-month innovation support program designed for African Earth Observation startups and SMEs, providing funding, tailored mentoring, and access to a network of investors and industry partners to enhance their market presence and growth potential.

Benefits

• 💰Financial Support
  €20,000 in milestone-based funding
• 🎓Mentorship Program
  Dedicated mentoring tailored to the stage of development
• 🌐Network Access
  Direct connections to a pan-African and European network of investors and industry partners
• 🏢In-Person Events
  Participation in two in-person events with mentors, investors, and partners
• 📈Business Growth
  Support to strengthen commercial offers and validate solutions in the market

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to African-registered businesses in the EO downstream sector
• Must be a startup (under 3 years), growth-stage SME (3-7 years), or established SME (7+ years) with specific revenue and TRL requirements
• Must be legally registered in a Sub-Saharan African Union Member State
• Must have at least 2 full-time members on the founding team and one English-speaking member
• Must commit a key team member to the full 12-month program, including two in-person events

Participation Commitments

• Must commit a key team member to the full 12-month program
• Must attend two in-person events during the program
• Must submit applications in English
• Must comply with EU restrictive measures and ITT eligibility requirements

Target Sector

Focused on Earth Observation and related sectors

Target Location

Open to businesses registered in Sub-Saharan African Union Member States