UNICEF's Climate Innovation Challenge in Cape Verde: An Opportunity for Sustainable Development
O UNICEF Climate Innovation Challenge represents a crucial opportunity for Cape Verde to boost sustainable development and strengthen the resilience of its communities in the face of the growing threats of climate change. This challenge, aimed at innovators, social entrepreneurs and national organisations, invites them to present innovative and scalable solutions to pressing problems related to water, agriculture, health and education, all of which are significantly impacted by climate change in the archipelago.
Cape Verde, due to its island geography and dependence on vulnerable natural resources, is on the front line of climate impacts. Water scarcity, soil degradation, coastal erosion and extreme weather events such as droughts and storms threaten the country's food security, public health and economic development. It is in this context that the UNICEF challenge takes on vital importance, providing the ideal platform for channelling creativity and innovation towards building a more resilient future.
The programme is looking for solutions that demonstrate a clear positive impact on vulnerable communities, promoting their adaptation to climate change and the mitigation of its effects. Innovation is not just limited to technology; solutions that integrate sustainable business models, innovative community practices and participatory approaches will also be valued. Collaboration between different sectors, including government, the private sector and civil society organisations, is key to the successful implementation of the proposed solutions. UNICEF particularly values solutions that take into account financial sustainability and replicability in other regions of the country, demonstrating a potential for long-term impact.
The Climate Innovation Challenge offers a range of benefits for the selected participants. In addition to public recognition and the opportunity to present their project to a network of experts and investors, the winning projects will receive funding for their implementation and access to specialised mentoring. This technical assistance aims to ensure that the solutions are implemented effectively and reach as many beneficiaries as possible. UNICEF's support also includes promoting the dissemination of the projects in order to inspire other initiatives with a similar impact in Cape Verde and other regions.
Participating in this challenge is a crucial step towards contributing to a more sustainable future in Cape Verde. We invite anyone interested in building a more resilient and equitable country to apply. The focus should be on innovation and solutions that not only solve immediate problems, but also promote local capacity to adapt to and mitigate climate change, creating a legacy for future generations. Contributing to building a more sustainable Cape Verde is everyone's responsibility and this challenge is a powerful tool for achieving that vital goal.
To submit your proposal, please visit the link below by the following day 21 October 2025.
https://www.unicef.org/innovation/unicef-climate-innovation-challenge
