The first round of the GSMA Ecosystem Accelerator Innovation Fund closes this Friday, 18th September at 11.59pm GMT.
As reported the fund is open to applicants from more than 60 countries across Africa and Asia and strongly encourages applicants from smaller emerging markets. Applicants must use mobile technology and be aligned with at least one of our focus areas: the sharing economy, and mobile services for SMEs.
The GSMA launched a fund to support start-ups using mobile to drive positive socio-economic impact in emerging markets. The Ecosystem Accelerator Innovation Fund will be open to start-ups in Africa and selected countries in Asia and will identify innovations with potential for growth whilst also providing best practices for stakeholders.
It will provide funding, mobile-focused mentoring and technical assistance to start-ups, and establish partnerships with operators to increase the reach of innovative mobile services.
The venture is backed by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and supported by the GSMA and its members.
Successful start-ups will receive:
Funding between GBP£100,000 and GBP£250,000
Mobile-focused mentoring and bespoke technical assistance
Opportunities to build partnerships with mobile operators in relevant markets
Who is eligible to apply in this round?
Applicants must use mobile technology and be aligned with one of our focus areas:
⚬ Sharing Economy
⚬ Mobile services for SMEs
To find out more and apply visit: gsma.com/innovationfund