All On Partnerships for Energy Access (All On) and the United States African Development Foundation (USADF) have agreed to further commit $10 million over the next three years to support innovative, African-owned businesses. This initiative will provide sustainable energy solutions and expand off-grid energy access in underserved communities.
This collaboration is aimed at expanding off-grid energy access in Nigeria, with a particular focus on underserved communities. The initiative signposts a renewed partnership between the two bodies as they build on the successes of the previous collaboration which ran from 2017-2022.
At the signing of the renewal pact held in New York, USADF President and CEO, Travis Adkins, emphasised the importance of the partnership, stating: “Our collaboration with All On has shown the transformative impact of off-grid energy solutions in improving lives and livelihoods in rural and underserved regions of Nigeria.
We are excited to continue this partnership’s important work, advancing clean energy technologies while addressing essential needs like health, education, gender inclusion and economic empowerment.”
He explained that the new funding will target both existing grantees and new businesses, focusing on addressing key challenges identified from previous cohorts. USADF, he revealed, will provide up to $250,000 in grant funding per selected project, while All On will contribute up to $750,000 per recipient through a range of investment mechanisms to support businesses in Nigeria’s energy sector.
Also speaking at the ceremony, All On CEO, Caroline Eboumbou, said that the partnership will continue investing in off-grid energy companies to increase access to clean energy for low-income communities, while contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. The programme, she further said, will also drive the localisation of the energy value chain.
Eboumbou said: “We are thrilled to renew our partnership with USADF, which has already made a significant impact on energy access in Nigeria. By combining our resources and expertise, we aim to empower more local businesses and communities with sustainable energy solutions. This collaboration is not just about providing power; it’s about creating opportunities for economic growth and lasting development across sectors throughout Nigeria.”
She disclosed that the partnership will focus on empowering women in energy, enhancing agricultural productivity, and promoting digital innovation, while also addressing energy needs in healthcare and education.
“By supporting the development of inverters, battery systems, and other local manufacturing components, the collaboration aims to create a more sustainable and locally driven energy ecosystem in Nigeria,” she added.