Powering Clean Energy Investment
Boosting the growth of inclusive Global South enterprises
Ashden’s Powering Clean Energy Investment programme catalyses the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Global South. This brings the benefits of energy access – from stronger local economies to better health, education and resilience – to more of the world’s most marginalised people.
Local enterprises are well-placed to deliver these benefits but often struggle to attract finance in the amounts and terms they require. By helping organisations attract the finance they need, Powering Clean Energy Investment empowers high-potential innovators to scale up and achieve maximum impact as fast as possible.
Our unrestricted development grants, technical assistance and strategic communications support are all geared to making recipients a more attractive and secure investment prospect.
Our portfolio of innovators
An integrated engineering company providing reliable, cost-effective clean energy solutions in Nigeria.
Helping rural communities in Southern Africa get on the move with electric tricycles.
Empowering refugee women in Uganda, through microfinance to launch clean energy businesses and other ventures.
OffGridBox
An integrated solution bringing clean water and renewable energy to clinics, schools, refugee camps and other settings.
Powering the rise of electric mobility for mass urban transport in Uganda, through vehicle assembly and repair, battery charging, training and more.
Manufacturing high-quality clean energy products in Nigeria, with affordable finance that helps more consumers enjoy modern technology.
How are we powering investment?
Powering Clean Energy Investment supports enterprises that have proven their potential but need the right resources and networks to navigate the challenging path to scale.
The programme is designed to cater to the needs of clean energy innovators who are targeting a broad range of investments and funding — from philanthropic grants to debt-based financing
Powering Clean Energy Investment is giving social impact investors access to a diverse, high-impact portfolio of clean energy enterprises. These enterprises are empowering people and communities across the Global South — delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy to those who need it most.
The programme offers:
Development grants that help organisations address key challenges, strengthen operations, and explore growth opportunities, positioning them for long-term success.
Access to expert support to enhance organisations’ financial management, governance, business strategy, legal status and investment readiness, ensuring they can effectively secure and deploy capital.
Strategic communications support to build our portfolio’s storytelling, build their brand presence, and connect them with funders and investors.
Funder and investor engagement through curated events, roundtables, and networking opportunities that create effective investment pathways.
Find out more
To find out more about the programme and our portfolio of innovators, contact Ishan Liberhan, International Programme Officer
The programme is supported by
