Apply to the sustainable innovate lab programme

Overview

The Sustainable Innovation Lab (SIL) is a dedicated space for young climate innovators across Nigeria to develop, refine, and scale their climate action solutions. Organised by the Network of Youth for Sustainable Initiative (NGYouthSDGs) with support from the Embassy of the Republic of Germany in Nigeria, this program aims to equip young leaders with the skills, mentorship, and resources necessary to build resilience in their communities and contribute to Nigeria’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Selected innovators will receive hands-on coaching, mentoring, and the opportunity to pitch for seed funding.

The Sustainable Innovation Lab (SIL) is more than a training program; it’s a launchpad for young innovators to become leaders in Nigeria’s climate resilience movement, equipped to drive sustainable change for a more resilient future.

 Objectives of the Sustainable Innovation Lab (SIL)

1. Strengthen Climate Innovation Capacity: Equip young Nigerian innovators with critical skills through mentorship, coaching, and structured support to enhance the viability and impact of their projects.
2. Prepare for Funding and Scale: Provide participants with resources and guidance to refine their climate innovations, preparing them to pitch for funding and potentially scale their solutions across affected communities in Nigeria.
3. Encourage Sustainable, Tech-Driven Solutions: Support the development of technology-based solutions that directly address climate adaptation and mitigation needs in line with Nigeria’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
4. Foster a Network of Climate Leaders: Build a collaborative lab where young innovators can exchange insights and best practices, creating a network of informed leaders driving sustainability across Nigeria.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be Nigerian residentscommitted to making an impact on climate resilience, particularly in communities highly affected by climate change.
• Experience in climate action projects is required, with an emphasis on adaptation, mitigation, or renewable energy initiatives that align with Nigeria’s National Adaptation Plans and Nationally Determined Contributions.
• The innovation must be at the prototype stage or beyond. Projects still in ideation are not eligible.
• Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old and should be open to receiving coaching, mentorship, and guidance.
• Must be willing to participate in a series of virtual coaching classes.
• Preference for female applicants and persons with disabilities to ensure inclusivity and diverse representation in climate action.

Benefits of the Sustainable Innovation Lab (SIL)

1. Hands-On Coaching and Mentorship: Gain tailored coaching and guidance from seasoned climate action leaders to refine and amplify your innovative solutions.
2. Funding Opportunities: Compete for a chance to win seed funding of up to ₦2,000,000 to scale your climate action project.
3. Skill Development: Learn essential skills in project scaling, resource mobilisation, and climate innovation through structured training sessions.
4. Networking and Collaboration: Join a dynamic network of like-minded young innovators, mentors, and climate leaders committed to building a sustainable and resilient Nigeria.
5. Visibility and Recognition: Showcase your ideas to key stakeholders and potential collaborators in the climate action and development space.
6. Tech-Driven Solutions Development: Receive support to create sustainable, technology-based innovations that align with Nigeria’s NAP and NDC goals.
7. Inclusive Climate Action Leadership: Be part of a diverse group of climate leaders, with a focus on amplifying the voices of women and persons with disabilities in climate innovation.

Prizes for Top Winners

The top 4 participants with the most impactful innovative solutions will be awarded cash prizes as follows:

• 1st Prize: ₦2,000,000
• 2nd Prize: ₦1,500,000
• 3rd Prize: ₦1,000,000
• 4th Prize: ₦500,000

Program Timeline

Phase 1: Orientation and Onboarding 

1. Introduction to the Climate Innovation Hub and an overview of Nigeria’s NAP and NDCs.
2. Getting to know mentors and coaches, and establishing clear goals for each participant.

Phase 2: Skills Development and Mentorship 

1. Weekly workshops covering core topics
2. Bi-weekly one-on-one mentoring sessions to address project-specific challenges.
3. Group sessions for peer-to-peer feedback, learning, and collaboration.

Phase 3: Final Pitch Event and Next Steps 

1. Participants present their pitches to a panel of potential funders and stakeholders.
2. Feedback and evaluation from panellists with the possibility of securing seed funding.
3. Networking opportunities with funders, climate leaders, and partner organisations for ongoing support.

Program Duration: 6 weeks

link: https://bit.ly/NGSustainable-Innovation-Lab