GSMA Innovation Fund

About this opportunity

The GSMA Innovation Fund offers grants of $50‑250k to early‑stage mobile tech startups in Africa that can show early traction and scalable impact. One key point: you must demonstrate a mobile‑first solution that addresses a clear need in an emerging market.

Who can apply

• Mobile technology startup
• Based in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia or any African country
• Product or service that is mobile‑first and addresses an emerging‑market need
• Early‑stage business with some traction (users, pilots, revenue)
• Scalable technology with potential for regional growth

Not eligible

• Non‑mobile tech companies
• Enterprises beyond early stage (e.g., large, established firms)
• Startups without any user or revenue traction

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Full eligibility wording from the listing

Mobile tech startup, Africa or emerging market focus, scalable technology, early traction

Documents you will need

• Executive summary (max 2 pages)
• Pitch deck (incl. problem, solution, market, business model, traction)
• Detailed business plan
• Financial statements or projections for the next 12‑24 months
• Proof of mobile‑first product (demo link, screenshots, or beta version)
• Founders’ CVs and proof of incorporation

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How to apply, step by step

1. Create an account on the GSMA Innovation Fund portal (registration required).
2. Complete the online application form with company details and project description.
3. Upload the required documents in the specified formats.
4. Answer the impact and scalability questions honestly and concisely.
5. Submit before 31 August 2026 and await a confirmation email.
6. If shortlisted, prepare for a virtual interview or pitch session.

How applications are selected

What reviewers look for

• Prioritise solutions that leverage mobile networks to reach underserved users.
• Show clear, quantifiable impact metrics (e.g., number of users, health outcomes).
• Demonstrate a realistic path to revenue or sustainable funding beyond the grant.
• Avoid vague descriptions; concrete data on traction and market size wins attention.
• Projects lacking a mobile component or clear scalability are filtered out early.

Frequently asked questions

Guide written from the official programme page on 26 October 2026. Funders change their rules, so confirm the details on the official page before you apply.

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