About this opportunity
Applications are open for the C3 EmpowerHer Program , a six-month accelerator supporting women-led and women-benefitting climate resilience enterprises across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) . The programme is delivered by C3 – Companies Creating Change and funded by the Resilient Futures Fund (RFF) .
It is designed to help early-stage climate ventures strengthen their solutions, access expert support, develop pilots, and become more investment-ready.
Benefits and support
All selected startups will receive: Expert-led training through 8–12 virtual workshops Tailored guidance from climate, sector, and investment experts Mentorship and strategic support Access to C3’s network of VCs, development finance institutions, corporates, and impact funds Support to strengthen their business and climate-impact strategies. Additional Benefits for the Top 10 The top 10 startups will receive: Up to US$20,000 each in catalytic pilot funding 10 expert advisory board sessions A tailored strategic roadmap Pilot design support with market enablers An opportunity to showcase their venture to investors at an in-person Demo Day in Egypt in Q2 2027.
The total catalytic grant funding available across the top 10 startups is US$150,000 .
Eligibility
The programme is designed for early-stage climate resilience ventures that meet the following criteria: Women-centered: The venture is women-led or its solution primarily benefits women. Climate-focused: The core mission addresses climate resilience rather than climate mitigation alone.
Early-stage with traction: The venture is at the pre-seed to pre-Series A stage , with an MVP and early evidence of traction. MENA-based or operating: The business is headquartered in or primarily operates within the MENA region.
Gender and climate impact: The business intentionally addresses both gender and climate outcomes. Ready to commit: The founding team can participate in the six-month programme, including workshops, mentorship, diagnostics, and pilot execution.
Focus Areas
Eligible solutions can address areas including: Water and sanitation Food and agri-climate Heat resilience Coastal and flood adaptation Nature-based solutions Climate-resilient infrastructure Sustainable livelihoods Climate finance access. Programme Format The programme is delivered primarily online , with training, mentorship, and advisory sessions conducted virtually.
The programme culminates in an in-person Demo Day in Egypt for the top 10 enterprises.
Application timeline
August 31, 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so eligible founders are encouraged to apply early.
Application steps
Interested founders can review the
Eligibility
and submit their applications through the official C3 programme page:
Sources and verification
Important disclaimer
Nextali researches and curates useful opportunities to make discovery easier. Before applying, verify every timeline, requirement, fee and application link on the official provider website. Do your own research into the organisation, its background and the authenticity of the offer. Nextali does not guarantee selection, funding or the conduct of third party providers.
