Botswana Launches $150m-Linked Innovation Program for Climate and Digital Startups
The Botswana Innovation Fund and Scalar International have launched the Scalar Botswana Innovation Program, a 12-month initiative designed to accelerate climate and digital technology startups in Southern Africa. Announced on March 10 in Gaborone, the program will select 10 early-stage companies to receive mentorship, product development support, and guidance on regulatory and commercial strategy.
A key feature of the program is its direct pipeline to Scalar International’s $150 million Africa Decarbonisation Fund I, established with Mergence Investment. Startups demonstrating strong growth potential will be positioned to secure capital from this fund, which targets scaling solutions across the Southern African region.
The program specifically targets ventures developing renewable energy solutions, such as micro-grids and other decentralised systems, alongside digital technologies including fintech and artificial intelligence. This focus aligns with Botswana’s broader strategy to establish itself as a regional hub for climate and technology innovation.
The launch occurs against a backdrop of significant energy challenges in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). While the region aims for universal electricity access by 2030, nearly half the population currently lacks reliable power. Furthermore, approximately 59% of the region’s energy supply remains dependent on coal, highlighting the urgency for scalable clean energy alternatives.
By combining an accelerator’s hands-on support with guaranteed access to substantial project finance, the initiative aims to bridge a critical gap in African innovation ecosystems. Often, startups struggle to transition from prototype development to large-scale, capital-intensive infrastructure projects. This model seeks to de-risk that transition, particularly for technologies that support distributed energy access—a priority for SADC nations seeking to expand electrification beyond traditional grid extensions.
The requirement for participating startups to establish a operational presence in Botswana supports the country’s ambition to attract regional talent and build a domestic innovation cluster. As climate technology investment grows across Africa, programs that integrate incubation, technical assistance, and dedicated capital are seen as essential for scaling solutions that address persistent infrastructure and sustainability challenges.
The first cohort is expected to begin later this year, with selections focusing on ventures that can demonstrate both technological viability and a clear path to commercial deployment within Southern Africa.
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