The GSMA’s Ecosystem Accelerator has called for applications for the second round of grants through its Innovation Fund, with up to GB£250,000 (US$322,000) on offer to startups from Africa and the Asia-Pacific region.
Disrupt Africa reported in July last year the GSMA Ecosystem Accelerator announced the launch of its Innovation Fund, providing funding to African and Asian startups using mobile technology.
Startups can apply for grants of between GB£100,000 (US$129,000) and GB£250,000 (US$322,000), and must be able to match 50 per cent of the funds requested with external funding, assets, or sweat-equity.
Recipients also receive nine to 15 months of support from the GSMA Ecosystem Accelerator, including mentorship, facilitation of relationships with mobile operators, and access to networks.
Earlier this year, in April, the first group of nine recipients was announced, with seven of the awardees hailing from Africa.
Applications are now open for the second round of grants; with the second round to focus on startups operating in the areas of the sharing economy, and services for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
“The response we got for our first round was great, and we’re starting to work with our first nine grantees, which is very exciting. Now with the second round opening for applications, we hope to welcome more innovative startups to our portfolio, in particular from regions like West Africa and Asia-Pacific where we got a bit less traction for round one,” said Max Cuvellier, head of the GSMA Ecosystem Accelerator.
Applications are open here, until July 16. However, early applications are strongly encouraged.
