About this opportunity
Applications are now open for the Nexa Global Climate × Health Innovation Challenge 2026 , a global funding initiative supporting bold, locally led innovations that strengthen health systems against the growing impacts of climate change. Nexa is co-led by Grand Challenges Canada and the Science for Africa Foundation , working with a global consortium of partners to invest in climate and health innovations across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
The initiative seeks solutions that help communities anticipate, adapt to, and respond to climate-related health threats such as extreme heat, mosquito-borne diseases, and poor air quality. Funding Benefits Successful applicants may receive funding through one of two streams: Proof of Concept: Up to USD 200,000 over 18–24 months for early-stage innovations Transition to Scale: Approximately USD 250,000 to USD 2 million for proven innovations ready for expansion Access to a global network of funders and partners Technical support to strengthen innovation and scale impact International visibility for selected innovations.
Eligibility
Proof of Concept Applicants must: Be an incorporated organization (or equivalent) in an eligible African country or Brazil Propose an early-stage innovation addressing climate-related health challenges Transition to Scale Applicants must: Be an incorporated organization anywhere in the world Implement their innovation in eligible countries across Africa, Latin America, or the Caribbean Demonstrate evidence that the innovation has already been tested and is ready for scaling.
Focus Areas
Nexa is seeking innovations that address one or more of the following climate-related health risks: Extreme heat Mosquito-borne diseases Poor air quality Solutions may include: Climate-informed early warning and monitoring systems Climate-responsive healthcare delivery Digital health technologies Community health innovations Data and decision-support tools Products, services, processes, or delivery models that strengthen health system resilience. Why This Matters Climate change is increasingly driving health emergencies around the world, placing additional pressure on already strained health systems.
Nexa invests in locally led innovations that enable frontline health actors to respond more effectively to climate-related health risks, improving resilience and protecting vulnerable communities. The initiative is backed by more than USD 50 million in partner commitments over five years.
Application timeline
July 22, 2026 (2:00 p. m.
ET / 6:00 p. m.
UTC).
Application steps
Interested organizations can review the funding guidelines and submit their applications through the official Grand Challenges Canada funding portal: APPLY NOW
Sources and verification
Important disclaimer
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