Innovation competitions for new technologies and business models are one tool used by policy makers in a range of contexts and countries to help businesses in new fields overcome practical barriers blocking progress between successful pilots and commercialisation. This brief note discusses competitions relevant to African off-grid energy and how they could be designed and positioned to have greater impact in the future.
Key points
- 1.3 billion people worldwide have no access to electricity.
- Innovation competitions are a useful tool for supporting early stage markets.
- There is a pressing need for coordination between competitions and with other funding sources.
- Early-stage training in general business skills would support entrepreneurs.
- Follow up networks for winners should be encouraged and supported.
