Applications are now open for the SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Round 2. This funding opportunity supports organizations that are building digital solutions to improve the lives of women and girls across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Moreover, the initiative seeks scalable and impactful innovations that promote digital inclusion, economic participation, education, and access to essential services.
The programme is delivered through a partnership between CARE and the GSMA Foundation, with support from the Gates Foundation.
About the SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Round 2
The SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Round 2 aims to close the digital gender gap across Africa. While digital technology continues to transform lives, many women still face barriers to access, safety, affordability, and participation.
Therefore, the programme supports proven digital solutions that can reach women at scale and create measurable impact.
In addition, selected organizations will receive funding and technical support to expand successful models across multiple communities.
Why the SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Matters
Digital inclusion creates opportunities for education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and financial independence. However, many women remain excluded from these opportunities.
As a result, the programme focuses on solutions that address real challenges facing women and girls. Furthermore, it encourages organizations to design products and services that are safe, inclusive, and accessible.
Ultimately, the initiative aims to create long-term social and economic impact across the region.
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Grant Benefits
Selected organizations will receive several valuable benefits, including:
- Grant funding ranging from $500,000 to $1 million
- An 18-month implementation period
- Access to peer learning opportunities
- Collaboration with innovators across Africa and India
- Increased global visibility and credibility
- Opportunities to strengthen future funding prospects
- Access to strategic partnerships and expert networks
Consequently, participants can scale their solutions more effectively and reach larger populations.
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include:
- Nonprofit organizations
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Civil society organizations
- Community-based organizations
- Mission-driven for-profit enterprises
- Academic institutions
- Partnerships and consortia
However, government agencies, bilateral organizations, multilateral institutions, and individual applicants cannot apply as lead applicants.
Furthermore, each organization may submit only one application.
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Geographic Requirements
Applicants must implement their proposed projects within Sub-Saharan Africa.
Additionally, organizations should demonstrate a realistic plan to reach at least 50,000 women within the 18-month implementation period.
Therefore, applicants should present clear evidence of their capacity to deliver large-scale impact.
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Priority Areas
The programme prioritizes projects that combine technology innovation with measurable social outcomes.
Examples include solutions that support:
- Digital inclusion
- Women’s economic empowerment
- Education access
- Healthcare access
- Safe digital participation
- Responsible AI implementation
- Community development
Likewise, projects should place women and girls at the center of design and implementation.
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Exclusions
The programme will not support:
- Infrastructure-only projects
- Equipment-only initiatives
- Standalone digital literacy programmes
- Customer acquisition campaigns without measurable impact outcomes
Instead, funding will support solutions that demonstrate clear benefits in education, health, livelihoods, and inclusion.
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Timeline
Applicants should take note of the following dates:
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Application Deadline
July 8, 2026
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Submission Time
11:59 PM EDT
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Results Notification
Mid-August 2026
SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Project Start Date
January 2027
Why Apply for the SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Round 2?
Many promising digital solutions struggle to move beyond the pilot stage. However, this programme provides the funding and support needed to achieve wider impact.
Moreover, organizations can strengthen their visibility, expand partnerships, and reach thousands of women across Africa.
Most importantly, participants can help create a more inclusive digital future while improving access to opportunities for women and girls.
For more opportunities visit: opportunitylab.net
How to Apply for the SheConnects Digital Accelerator Africa Round 2
Interested organizations should review the programme guidelines and submit their applications through the official application portal before the deadline.
Since competition is expected to be strong, early preparation and submission are highly recommended.
