New catalytic funding launched to accelerate clean energy transition across sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, the Indo-Pacific region and Latin America

January 5th, 2026

London, UK – 5 January 2026

Up to £7m in transformative grant funding is now available to companies advancing clean energy access across sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, the Indo-Pacific region, and Latin America.

Announced today as part of the Energy Catalyst Round 11 funding cycle, the investment underlines the programme’s continued commitment to supporting innovative clean energy technologies that address Sustainable Development Goals 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, and 13 – Climate Action.

Application deadline: 25th March 2026

For more information on how to apply, please visit:

Early stage:
Energy catalyst round 11 – early stage

Mid-stage:
Energy catalyst round 11 – mid stage

Late stage:
Energy catalyst round 11 – late stage

Energy Catalyst – delivered by Innovate UK, accelerates the innovation needed to realise a just and inclusive energy transition, improving livelihoods, incomes, and energy access in some of the world’s most underserved communities. Since its inception in 2014, the programme has awarded over £160 million in grant funding to more than 300 energy access projects across 46 countries. These projects span a wide range of innovative solutions, including next-generation solar, smart green-grids, hydrogen, clean cooling, and renewable-based alternatives to fossil fuel generators.

Funding for Round 11 comes as part of the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) and is provided by the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) under the UK’s Ayrton Fund commitment.

Key Details of Round 11 Funding:

  • Total Funding Available: Up to £7 million
  • Project Size:
    • Early-stage: £50,000–£300,000
    • Mid-stage: £50,000–£1.5 million
    • Late-stage: £50,000–£5 million
  • Application Open Date: 5 January 2026
  • Application Close Date: 25 March 2026, 11:00 AM (GMT)
  • Eligibility: Projects must focus on improving energy access in Official Development Assistance (ODA) eligible countries in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, the Indo-Pacific regions, and Latin America.

Applications are encouraged from UK-registered companies partnered with international organisations, aiming to deliver business models that can significantly impact clean energy access.

For more information on how to apply, please visit:

Early stage:
Energy catalyst round 11 – early stage

Mid-stage:
Energy catalyst round 11 – mid stage

Late stage:
Energy catalyst round 11 – late stage

“We are delighted to launch Round 11 and confirm that Latin America has been added to the list of regions for the competition, further strengthening Energy Catalyst’s commitment to advancing innovative solutions for global clean energy access” said Jillian Henderson, Innovation Lead at Innovate UK. “This funding will support the growth of transformative projects that address the urgent need for reliable, clean energy in communities without access to safe cooking facilities and essential power for healthcare, education, and local businesses. By championing innovation and inclusivity, Energy Catalyst is accelerating the move toward a just and sustainable energy transition.”