About

ABOUT GCIC

Founded in 2016, Ghana Climate Innovation Centre (GCIC) is a pioneering national business incubator with a unique focus on developing SME ventures and entrepreneurs in Ghana’s ‘Green Economy’. The Centre is an institute of Ashesi University and is currently funded with a grant from Global Affairs Canada.

The GCIC’s mission is to develop and support an exceptional set of transformational ventures and entrepreneurs who are pioneering adaptive and mitigating solutions for climate change issues in Ghana.

With a focus on five key economic sectors (energy efficiency; solar power & renewable energy; climate-smart agriculture; domestic waste management; water management and purification), GCIC supports enterprises within its incubator with premium business advisory services, technology and product development support (including technical support in the development, prototyping and testing of their innovation), as well as financial Proof of Concept grants.

Over the four-year funding from Global Affairs Canada from August 2021 to August 2025, GCIC will provide business incubation services to a total of 120 climate entrepreneurs from across Ghana.

A further 120 SMEs from across Ghana will be supported with knowledge brokerage support in business climate action, through GCIC’s national bootcamps and green business roadshows.

2024 PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Incubating Climate Innovation 2024 symposium, hosted under the theme, “Catalyzing Climate Innovation: From Ideas to Impact”, is more than a symposium—it is a catalyst for redefining success in the climate adaptation space, inspiring collaboration, and driving tangible outcomes.


In Ghana, climate change poses significant threats to livelihoods, agriculture, water resources, and biodiversity, with projected increases in temperature and changes in precipitation patterns exacerbating existing vulnerabilities.  In the face of escalating climate challenges, success is no longer defined solely by the implementation of individual projects or initiatives but by the collective impact and resilience achieved across communities, industries, and ecosystems.

This symposium serves as a pivotal platform for stakeholders to converge, collaborate, and chart a course towards transformative success in climate adaptation within the Ghanaian context.

By fostering dialogue among policymakers, the international donor community, entrepreneurs, venture capital firms, and community leaders, the symposium aims to redefine success in climate adaptation as a holistic and inclusive endeavor. Success is measured by the extent to which we contribute to building resilient communities, protecting vulnerable populations, and safeguarding ecosystems.  By collectively envisioning and striving towards a shared vision of success, stakeholders will catalyze transformative change and accelerate progress towards a more resilient and sustainable future.

ICI 2024 KEY
FOCUS AREAS

Leaving No One Behind

Explore the intersectionality of climate change and social justice and discuss strategies for ensuring that climate solutions are inclusive and equitable.

From Vision to Reality - Incubating Climate Solutions

The dialogue seeks to explore the journey of incubating climate solutions, from conceptualization to implementation. We aim to delve into the strategic considerations, challenges, and opportunities involved in translating visionary ideas into tangible climate solutions that make a meaningful impact.

Investing in Climate Solutions - Mobilizing Capital for Impact

The role of investors in funding climate-focused startups and scaling climate solutions. Successful fundraising and the impact of donor support in accelerating climate innovation.

Building Resilience - Overcoming Challenges in Climate Entrepreneurship

The panel discussion is to examine the challenges faced by climate entrepreneurs and explore strategies for building resilience in the face of adversity. We will highlight innovative approaches, best practices, and lessons learned from real-world experiences to empower climate entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of the entrepreneurial journey.