Siemens Stiftung Opens Call for R&D in E-Mobility
Siemens Stiftung opens a new call for research and development (R&D) to validate and implement products and business models in the e-mobility sector. The call is open to enterprises working in the e-mobility value chain in Ghana and Uganda, focused on testing and piloting sustainable transport.
The call is now open, and applications will be accepted until August 30, 2024, or until suitable candidates are contracted. The foundation is seeking 3 – 5 enterprises operative in the battery, charging/swapping, or electric vehicle and technology value chain. The candidates will support Siemens Stiftung’s E-Mobility program in conducting a marked-based R&D project.
Over a 12-month period, successful applicants will conduct R&D projects to develop effective market-based solutions and increase the social and ecological impact of e-mobility.
Successful applicants will:
- Receive a contract value of a minimum of USD $30,000 and up to USD $75,000 for a maximum of 12 months
- Benefit from a robust e-mobility and social entrepreneurship network
Joint applications of more than one company can apply for up to USD $110,000 for a duration of a maximum of 18 months.
Minimum eligibility criteria for enterprises:
- Registered and operative in Ghana or Uganda
- Market experience in Ghana or Uganda
- A market-tested prototype which attracted users and clients
- Demonstrate the social and/or ecological impact
- Operative in the battery, charging/swapping or electric vehicle and technology value chain
- No pending litigations against the enterprise or its management team
Mobility is fundamental for sustainable, economic, and societal development. The exciting solutions that come out of this R&D project will pave the way for new market-ready technologies. By encouraging women-led enterprises, the aim is to make e-mobility inclusive, empowering, and equitable.
For context, population growth, rapid urbanization, and economic development in Ghana and Uganda have resulted in high traffic volumes, contributing to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. To reach their targets to reduce national CO2 emissions by 15% and 22% respectively by 2030, both countries’ governments are increasingly engaging with social entrepreneurs from the private sector to find technological interventions.
Siemens Stiftung has identified the critical pillars enabling economies to grow and embrace e-mobility. Field-based R&D can address market gaps, improve ecosystem services, and increase the social and ecological impact of the private sector. The foundation draws on its long-standing collaboration with social enterprises, regional partners like Impact Hub Accra and Africa E-Mobility Alliance in East Africa, and international organizations to accelerate the development of innovative e-mobility technological solutions and sustainable business models in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Sustainable Development Goals on Climate Action, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and Decent Work and Economic Growth are all possible thanks to enterprises dedicated to developing and commercializing e-mobility.
Siemens Stiftung will conduct a Q&A session on May 2, 2023 at 13:00 CET. You can register for the session through this link.
Women-led enterprises, or business models benefitting female customers are encouraged to apply.
Learn more about the call details and apply here.