• GSMA will award grants of £100,000 to £200,000 ($135,000 to $270,000) over 15 to 18 months.

• The fund targets Africa, Central and South America, and South and Southeast Asia.

• Eligible startups must provide at least 25% co-financing of total project costs.

The Global Association of Mobile Network Operators (GSMA) announced on Sunday, February 23, the launch of an Innovation Fund to support small enterprises and startups that use mobile technologies to advance clean energy transition and digital inclusion. The initiative targets Africa, Central and South America, as well as South and Southeast Asia.

GSMA will provide grants ranging from £100,000 to £200,000 ($135,000 to $270,000) over a period of 15 to 18 months. The organization designed the fund to back commercially viable solutions that combine environmental impact with business sustainability.

“We invest in companies that use mobile technology to strengthen digital inclusion and support a sustainable energy transition, while offering circular solutions that extend device lifecycles and make connectivity more affordable for underserved communities,” said Philippe Bellordre, Acting Head of Mobile for Development at GSMA.

Eligible companies must register legally in one of the targeted regions, employ up to 250 people and demonstrate both revenue generation and an active user base. The fund requires beneficiaries to contribute at least 25% of total project costs through matching financing.

The program will support initiatives such as device repair, refurbishment and reuse, as well as trade-in programs and responsible collection and recycling of electronic waste. These solutions aim to extend device lifespans, reduce e-waste and improve connectivity affordability for underserved populations, thereby strengthening socio-economic inclusion.

In addition to financial support, selected startups will receive ongoing monitoring, evaluation and learning assistance, as well as increased visibility through GSMA publications and platforms.

Applications will remain open until April 6, 2026 at 23:59 UK time. Interested companies can submit applications through the dedicated online portal.

https://gsma-innovation.fluxx.io/user_sessions/new

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum