Description

Overview

The Africa Business Innovation Lab (ABIL) has opened applications for ABIL Invest, its business acceleration and incubation track for market-oriented Earth Observation solutions in Kenya.

The programme supports start-ups and SMEs with validated concepts and business models that are ready to integrate satellite or Earth Observation data, move towards commercialisation, scale their operations and engage with investors.

Who Can Apply?

ABIL Invest targets start-ups and SMEs in Kenya with validated concepts and clear commercial potential. Applicants should be ready to incorporate EO or satellite data into their products or services and demonstrate potential for market growth.

Relevant sectors include agriculture, energy, health, infrastructure, logistics, fintech and climate tech.

Funding and Support

Selected companies are expected to receive €20,000 in non-dilutive funding and participate in a nine-month incubation programme combining technical, commercial and investment-readiness support.

The programme includes business coaching, one-to-one advisory support, technical guidance on EO integration and data pipelines, workspace at ABIL’s Nairobi facility, and structured development sprints covering technology, customers, business, funding and team readiness.

Participants will also receive investor matchmaking through the ESA Investor Network and African venture funds, alongside opportunities to participate in Demo Days, networking activities and Africa–Europe investor sessions. Support is also provided for accessing complementary funding opportunities.

Programme Structure

The nine-month programme is divided into two stages. The Innovation Stage, indicatively lasting 5–6 months, focuses on areas such as problem-solution fit, business models, MVP development, market validation and financial planning. The Progress Stage, lasting approximately 3–4 months, focuses on investor readiness, partnerships, final demonstrators and preparation for scale-up.

Key Dates

Application deadline: 23 September 2026 at 1:00 p.m. EAT
Programme duration: 9 months
Expected funding: €20,000 per selected company

How to Apply

Applicants should download the ABIL Invest Open Call Package, which provides the detailed eligibility requirements, evaluation process and application rules, together with the required business plan, incubation proposal and supporting templates.

Completed applications must be submitted by 23 September 2026 at 1:00 p.m. EAT.