KAZA TFCA - ALU School of Wildlife Conservation

Africa Conservation Innovation Challenge

About

The African Leadership University’s School of Wildlife Conservation (SOWC), in partnership with Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation (OGRC), is excited to launch the African Conservation Innovation Challenge. This initiative seeks to foster conservation innovation across the entire African continent.

The aim of this challenge is to identify and support early-stage conservation enterprises across Africa that operate on a for-profit basis, with a focus on those not dependent on tourism. These enterprises should empower local communities to earn sustainable income from wildlife (fauna and flora), manage natural resources sustainably, and enhance collective well-being. Successful applicants will secure a spot in SOWC’s esteemed business incubator program.

Why Participate?

Access to Resources

Selected participants will benefit from a plethora of resources, including expert mentorship, training, and networking opportunities in conservation and business development.

Business Incubation Programme

Qualified applicants will join the School of Wildlife Conservation's business incubator program, designed to provide support and guidance in developing and expanding their conservation initiatives.

Meeting Investors

Those who complete the program successfully will have the opportunity to pitch their venture to conservation-focused investors.

Community Impact

By entering the challenge, conservation enterprises contribute to the welfare of local communities by generating income, promoting sustainable resource management, and enhancing collective prosperity.

Who should participate?

Geographical Focus

The conservation enterprise must operate within any African country, reflecting the diverse ecological landscapes and conservation needs across the continent.

For-Profit, Non-Tourism Focus

The enterprise should be for-profit and focus on non-tourism-based conservation efforts.

Local Community Engangement

The enterprise must show a commitment to engaging and benefiting the local communities where it operates. This might include income-generating and employment initiatives, support for sustainable resource management, or improvements to collective well-being.

Conservation Impact

The enterprise should have a clear and measurable impact on conservation, which could involve biodiversity conservation, habitat restoration, climate action, or other relevant goals.

Innovation and Sustainability

The initiative should introduce innovative conservation approaches and demonstrate a commitment to long-term sustainability.

Alignment with Continental Conservation Goals

The enterprise should align with the overarching conservation goals across Africa, contributing positively to the sustainable development of the continent.