African innovators seeking support to scale home-grown solutions now have a new opportunity as Sahara Group and Asharami Energy open applications for the M.A.D Equation 2026 initiative.
- African innovators seeking support to scale home-grown solutions now have a new opportunity as Sahara Group and Asharami Energy open...
- The programme seeks entrepreneurs, inventors and researchers across Africa who are using local resources to tackle social, economic and environmental...
- According to the foundation, applicants must already have tested prototypes or existing solutions capable of addressing problems linked to sustainability,...
- Sahara Group Foundation has previously stated that one of the biggest obstacles facing African entrepreneurs is limited access to funding,...
Keep reading for the full breakdown on African innovators — everything you need to know is covered below.
The programme seeks entrepreneurs, inventors and researchers across Africa who are using local resources to tackle social, economic and environmental challenges.
Organisers say the initiative will provide mentorship, business support and exposure for innovators whose ideas have moved beyond the concept stage.
Focus on African Solutions
The M.A.D Equation initiative builds on the Sahara Group Foundation’s wider “Making A Difference Around Africa” platform, popularly known as MADAA. The project was launched to identify innovators developing practical solutions using materials and resources sourced from African communities.
According to the foundation, applicants must already have tested prototypes or existing solutions capable of addressing problems linked to sustainability, energy access, healthcare, agriculture and other socioeconomic needs. The organisers explained that the programme aims to help innovators transform ideas into commercially viable ventures.
Sahara Group has increasingly promoted entrepreneurship as part of its broader “Making A Difference” philosophy. The company recently urged young Africans to turn pressing energy and development problems into business opportunities that can improve livelihoods across the continent.
Mentorship and Market Access
Successful applicants are expected to benefit from advisory services, mentorship opportunities and access to networks that can help strengthen their businesses. Sahara Group Foundation has previously stated that one of the biggest obstacles facing African entrepreneurs is limited access to funding, business development support and markets.
The foundation noted that many African innovators have promising ideas but struggle to scale due to limited institutional support. Through MADAA and related initiatives, Sahara Group says it wants to help entrepreneurs bridge the gap between innovation and market entry.
In recent years, Sahara Group Foundation has expanded its entrepreneurship programmes across the continent, supporting ventures focused on clean energy, mobility, healthcare and community development. The organisation awarded more than $130,000 to African entrepreneurs under its EXTRApreneur initiatives in 2025.
Driving Enterprise Across Africa
Sahara Group, an international energy and infrastructure conglomerate with operations spanning Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East, says innovation remains central to its long-term growth strategy. The company has also continued to promote youth enterprise through partnerships, sustainability projects and training initiatives.
Applications for the M.A.D Equation 2026 programme are now open to innovators across Africa. Organisers encouraged entrepreneurs to apply with practical, community-focused solutions and take advantage of the opportunity to grow their ventures.
Further details on eligibility requirements and application timelines are available on the Sahara Group Foundation platform.