Entries open for African Energy Futures Grant Program

The African Energy Futures Grant Program supports African-based universities, think tanks, and research institutions to establish or expand long-term energy research hubs that anchor a continent-wide collaboration network.

Selected institutions can access up to US$1 million over three to five years to build durable institutional capacity, strengthen policy engagement, and sustain collaborative research beyond the funding period.

Overview

The African Energy Futures Grant Program invites African-based universities, think tanks, and research institutions to register interest in forming research hubs that will anchor a new, Africa-wide collaboration network in energy research and policy engagement.

The initiative prioritizes long-term institutional capacity building over short-term projects, with the goal of strengthening African leadership in energy research and evidence-based policymaking.

Registered institutions that meet eligibility and strategic criteria will be able to apply for multi-year funding to establish or expand hubs that connect research, training, and policy engagement.

Program Objectives

The program is designed to:

• Strengthen African leadership in energy research and policy dialogue

• Build durable institutional capacity rather than funding isolated projects

• Establish research hubs that convene local expertise

• Foster ongoing collaboration with national policymakers

• Create an Africa-wide community of practice in energy research

• Support institutions that can sustain impact beyond the funding period

What the Funding Supports

Hub Development and Expansion

Funding is intended to support:

• Establishment or expansion of energy research hubs

• Institutional development and governance strengthening

• Collaborative research programs

• Training and capacity-building activities

• Policy engagement and knowledge translation

• Network-building across countries and institutions

Long-Term Sustainability Focus

Applicants must demonstrate that grant funding will be used to:

• Build sustainable institutions

• Support activities that continue after African Energy Futures funding ends

• Strengthen partnerships with policymakers and peer institutions

Funding Amount and Duration

• Grant size: Up to US$1 million per hub

• Funding period: Three to five years

• Funding model: Fully funded hubs

• Future eligibility: Registered and selected institutions will be eligible for multi-year funding

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Institutions

Applications are open to:

• African-based universities

• African-based think tanks

• African-based research institutions

Institutions must be legally established and operating within Africa.

Institutional Expectations

Bidding institutions must:

• Demonstrate a long-term commitment to institutional development

• Show capacity to anchor a research hub

• Commit to ongoing collaboration with national policymakers

• Be prepared to help lead an Africa-wide community of practice

• Use funding to support collaborative research and training

How the Application Process Works

Two-Stage Proposal Process

The application process is structured in two stages.

Stage 1: Concept Note Submission

Institutions must submit a concept note that:

• Is no more than five pages

• Explains how the institution will:

  • Execute the requirements of a hub

  • Build institutional capacity

  • Engage policymakers

  • Contribute to continent-wide collaboration

Applicants must complete the designated registration form, which directs them to a submission page with detailed guidance on:

• Eligibility criteria

• Expectations for the concept note

Deadline:

• Midnight, 30 January 2026

Concept notes must be submitted via the official submission page.

Stage 2: Full Proposal (By Invitation Only)

• Up to ten of the strongest concept notes will be shortlisted

• Shortlisted institutions will be invited to submit a full proposal

• Applicants will be notified of outcomes by 20 February 2026

Institutions not formally invited should assume their bid was unsuccessful for this round, although future engagement opportunities may be available.

Use of Submitted Concept Notes

By submitting a concept note, applicants:

• Consent to African Energy Futures using the concept note

• Allow engagement with third parties

• Enable efforts to attract additional funding and partner support

Why This Program Matters

The African Energy Futures Grant Program is significant because it:

• Prioritizes African-led energy research

• Links research directly with policy engagement

• Invests in institutional sustainability, not short-term outputs

• Builds a continent-wide research and policy network

• Supports long-term solutions to Africa’s energy challenges

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Proposing short-term or project-only activities

• Failing to demonstrate long-term institutional sustainability

• Weak plans for policymaker engagement

• Submitting concept notes over the five-page limit

• Missing the submission deadline or using the wrong submission channel

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply to the African Energy Futures Grant Program?

African-based universities, think tanks, and research institutions.

2. What type of funding is offered?

Up to US$1 million per hub over three to five years.

3. Are individual researchers eligible to apply?

No. Applications must be submitted by institutions, not individuals.

4. What is the purpose of the concept note?

To explain how the institution will establish or expand a hub and meet the program’s long-term objectives.

5. How many institutions will be shortlisted?

Up to ten institutions will be invited to submit full proposals.

6. When will shortlisted applicants be notified?

By 20 February 2026.

7. Can unsuccessful applicants apply again?

Yes. African Energy Futures notes that there will be future opportunities to engage.

Conclusion

The African Energy Futures Grant Program offers a major opportunity for African institutions to lead long-term, collaborative energy research and policy engagement.

By funding durable research hubs and fostering continent-wide collaboration, the initiative aims to strengthen Africa’s capacity to shape its own energy future through evidence-based research, training, and sustained institutional development.