Sponsored by:

In West Africa, renewable energy entrepreneurs are at the forefront of efforts to extend access to modern energy services as they are often best placed to offer tailored-made local solutions. Such entrepreneurs, however, face serious challenges including business management and operations, as well as how to bring their innovative ideas to fruition.

To overcome some of these challenges and strengthen the position of ECOWAS-based renewable energy businesses, the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy of the Republic of Senegal and the German Development Agency (GIZ) are honouring WAPECC by sponsoring the Impact Starter Platform competition for regional SMEs.

ECREEE and GIZ, (German International Development Agency) in collaboration with the ministry of Petroleum and Energy of the Republic of Senegal will be launching the:

WAPECC Impact Starter Platform

a competition for SME’s to submit the best energy solution for the benefit of local communities, judged by our panel of experts, open soon

The top three entries to this competition will win mentorship from our sponsors to:

• Refine renewable energy project proposals to be bankable
• Train them through enterprise development and mentorship programs

Konect Group together with its advisory partners will work with the SMEs in the run up to the event.

All submitted applications will be submitted to a jury made up of experts from the energy industry and the top three most innovative will be announced at WAPECC.

The WAPECC Impact Starter Platform will give investors visibility of local, quality SMEs ready to take the lead in the off-grid development initiative.

The winning entries will have the opportunity to use this promotion platform, investment pipeline and opportunity for knowledge transfer.