Impact-driven startups and social enterprises can now apply for Expo City Dubai Foundation\u2019s Global Innovators Programme, which offers grants of up to US$ 100,000. The programme backs scalable solutions that tackle urgent challenges, especially in the Global South.<\/p>\n
The Expo City Dubai Foundation continues the legacy of Expo Live by funding entrepreneurs who address major social, environmental, and humanitarian challenges.
For African founders, this is a powerful opportunity to gain global exposure, scale your solutions, and work with a foundation that has disbursed grants to innovators in over 90 countries.
Past support has included mentoring, access to international networks, and business development resources.<\/p>\n
What the Program Supports<\/p>\n
This 2025 cohort is focused on extreme heat in humanitarian and emergency settings.
Solutions may include:<\/p>\n
Cooling shelters or infrastructure
\nOff-grid energy systems
\nHealth tech innovations to respond to heat-related risks
\nWater and food resilience tools designed for hot and challenging environments<\/p>\n
Eligibility Criteria<\/p>\n
Applicants should meet the following:<\/p>\n
A legally registered social enterprise, startup, SME, or non-profit
\nDemonstrable social, environmental, or humanitarian impact
\nMust be prototype-ready or beyond \u2014 not just in idea stage
\nOperating in or based in the Global South is a priority for this cohort
\nGood organisational capacity, clear impact plans, and realistic scaling or replication strategies<\/p>\n
Benefits<\/p>\n
Selected innovators receive:<\/p>\n
Grant funding up to US$ 100,000 per project
\nMentorship and guidance from Expo City Dubai Foundation\u2019s network
\nStrategic partnerships and development support
\nGlobal visibility across Expo City Dubai\u2019s platforms and innovation ecosystem<\/p>\n
Application & Deadline<\/p>\n
Deadline for application: 23 November 2025
\nHow to apply: Submit your proposal and supporting materials on the Expo City Dubai Global Grants Programme portal.
\nSelection process: Proposals are evaluated based on innovation, scalability, impact, and alignment with the theme.<\/p>\n
Tips for Applicants<\/p>\n
Clearly define the heat-related challenge you\u2019re solving \u2014 use data and context to show urgency.
\nBuild a strong impact narrative: how your solution will scale, who benefits, and what change it will bring.
\nDemonstrate operational readiness: show you have a prototype or a working model.
\nPrepare a realistic budget and roadmap: how you\u2019ll use the grant, expected milestones, and measurable outcomes.
\nHighlight partnerships or networks: this strengthens your application and shows you\u2019re not going it alone.<\/p>\n
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