The GreenScale Zambia Incubator & Accelerator Project is a strategic intervention aimed at accelerating the growth of Zambia’s green and circular economy Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Lusaka and the Copperbelt. Funded by the European Union and implemented by CaDev_Catalyst Development and Challenges Zambia, the project will support 40 high-potential startups leveraging technology to build a greener, more sustainable Zambia.
This initiative seeks to identify and support businesses that are transforming waste streams into valuable products and services, contributing to environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, job creation, and inclusive economic growth. Eligible enterprises should demonstrate an active waste-to-value model, operational capacity, and acommitment to scaling sustainable circular solutions within Zambia.
Outreach & Recruitment
The project begins with an open call targeting 200 applications from Lusaka and the Copperbelt, leveraging partner networks, media, and industry associations. We strongly encourage youth-led (75%) and women-led (50%) enterprises to apply. Eligible MSMEs should be operational for at least 6 months, have basic business structures and records, and demonstrate a clear green or circular business model.
All applicants will be invited toparticipate in two virtual masterclasses, designed to introduce key principles of the green and circular economy. These sessions provide valuable expert insights, networking opportunities, and interactive learning experiences to help strengthen your understanding and prepare your business for the next stage.
Following this, applications will u ndergo a transparent and structured evaluation process, assessing innovation,business viability, growth potential, and environmental impact. Priority will be given to enterprises with strong potential to create green jobs and reduc environmental harm.
Selected enterprises will takepart in an intensive bootcamp designed to strengthen their businesses and prepare them for growth.
Participants will build core business skills such as business modeling, financial planning, and leadership,while also learning practical circular economy principles like resource efficiency, reuse, and sustainable design. The project also integrates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices to help businesses improve performance, manage risk, and align with sustainability standards.
Through interactive, hands-on learning, participants will apply these concepts directly to their businesses. At the end of the bootcamp, enterprises will be assessed, with top performers advancing to the next stage while others receive tailored feedback and continued support.
Enterprises will be supported to access new markets and customers through B2B matchmaking, partnerships, and trade opportunities, while also receiving guidance on business formalisation (e.g. PACRA).
The project will further connect businesses to funding and investment opportunities through investor networks and financial institutions, alongside training in financial literacy and loan readiness.
In addition, enterprises will be linked to key government institutions such as ZDA, ZEMA, and the Ministry of Green Economy to support compliance, certification, and access to incentives.
At the final stage of the project, selected enterprises will showcase their businesses through a competitive pitch process aimed at unlocking funding and partnerships.
All participants who complete the project are eligible, with top-performing enterprises shortlisted for the final pitch. They will receive intensive pitch training, mentorship, and mock sessions to refine their business case, impact, and growth potential.
Finalists will present to a panelof industry experts, investors, and ecosystem partners. Businesses will be assessed on innovation, scalability, team strength, and environmental and social impact using a transparent scoring system.
Winning enterprises will competefor:
Prizes of up to €25,000 (1st), €15,000 (2nd), and €10,000 (3rd)
International exposure through sponsored conference participation (up to €2,500)
Direct access to investors, financial institutions, and partners
This stage positions enterprises for funding, visibility, and long-term growth in the green economy.
Minimum EligibilityRequirements:
To qualify for consideration, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
a) The business must have been operational for at least 12 months prior to the application date.
b) The business must employ a minimum of two (2) staff members (full-time or part-time combined).
c) The business must be physically based and operating within Lusaka Province or Copperbelt Province.
Only businesses that meet all eligibility criteria and submit complete applications with the required supporting documentation will be considered.
Incomplete applications, applications that do not meet the minimum requirements, or those submitted without mandatory documentation will not proceed to the evaluation stage.
