About this opportunity
Applications are now open for the 2026 MTN-WWF Africa PachiPanda Challenge , an innovation program designed to discover, support, and scale youth-led solutions tackling environmental and climate challenges across Sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative, a partnership between MTN and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), seeks to empower young innovators and youth-led SMEs developing sustainable solutions that promote environmental conservation, climate resilience, and green entrepreneurship.
Eligibility
The challenge is open to: Young innovators across Sub-Saharan Africa Youth-led Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Individuals and teams developing innovative environmental and climate solutions Entrepreneurs committed to sustainability and climate action
Focus Areas
Applicants are encouraged to submit solutions addressing: Climate change adaptation and mitigation Environmental sustainability Biodiversity conservation Waste management and circular economy Renewable energy Green technology Community-led environmental solutions Natural resource conservation
Benefits and support
Successful participants will receive: Business incubation and venture support Expert mentorship and capacity-building Opportunity to pitch innovative solutions to industry experts Increased visibility and networking opportunities Support to scale climate-focused innovations Recognition as one of Africa’s leading green innovators Programme Objectives The PachiPanda Challenge aims to: Discover and incubate innovative youth-led climate solutions. Increase youth participation in environmental sustainability.
Build knowledge around climate and environmental challenges. Reward and scale impactful green innovations.
Promote partnerships that advance climate action across Africa.
Program Timeline
Applications Open: 29 July 2026
Application timeline
28 August 2026 Top 100 Announcement: 18 September 2026 Top 25 Announcement: 2 October 2026 Top 10 Announcement: 9 October 2026 Bootcamp & Pitch Event: 20–23 October 2026 Winners Announcement : 23 October 2026
Application steps
Interested applicants can learn more and submit their applications through the official website: https://www. mtn.
com/pachipanda-challenge/
Sources and verification
Important disclaimer
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