03/01/2025
USAID Launches Choova Njinga – A $2.2 Million Innovation Challenge for Malawi and Zambia
USAID has officially launched the Choova Njinga Innovation Challenge, a $2.2 million initiative designed to foster innovative, bicycle-based solutions that can enhance economic opportunities, improve productivity, and increase access to essential services in Malawi and Zambia. The challenge encourages greater adoption of bicycles as a tool for development in both countries.
At the launch event, Bryony Everett, Director of Global Programmes at DT Global UK, expressed her excitement about the initiative’s potential impact, especially for women. "I am really excited about the Choova Njinga challenge, particularly the benefits it could bring to women, who research shows could gain the most from using bicycles in rural areas. It can help them access healthcare, markets, and education."
About the Choova Njinga Challenge
The challenge calls for creative ideas that address the following objective:
Develop or scale a cost-effective bicycle solution for communities in Malawi and/or Zambia that supports the effective transportation of people or goods, and improves access to services, particularly for low-income households and women.
Applicants will have access to both financial and non-financial support to develop and scale their solutions. The challenge has two streams:
• Stream 1 – Developing Innovations:
This stream is for ideas at the proof-of-concept stage, where field testing is needed to evaluate their potential impact. Selected applicants will receive funding ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, with support provided from June 2025 to May 2026.
• Stream 2 – Transition to Scale:
This stream is for innovations that have already achieved small-scale success but need further market validation and partnerships to scale. Funding ranges from $200,000 to $400,000, with support running from June 2025 to November 2026.
In addition to funding, successful applicants will receive non-financial support, which includes:
• Training: Group sessions on key topics related to the challenge.
• Mentoring: Tailored guidance from mentors to support project development.
• Engagement Events: Opportunities to network and engage in peer learning with key stakeholders.
The challenge is led by USAID’s Exploratory Programs and Innovation Competitions (EPIC) team under the Innovation Design, Ex*****on, and Acceleration Support (IDEAS) mechanism, with the support of a consortium that includes Encompass, Challenge Works, DT Global, and Itad.
Who Can Apply
The Choova Njinga Innovation Challenge is open to applicants from Malawi and Zambia. In Zambia, proposals targeting the Copperbelt, Central, and Eastern provinces are particularly encouraged. Applicants may include NGOs, local universities, start-ups, SMEs, and the general public. Both pedal bicycles and e-bikes are eligible for consideration.
Submission Details
The challenge follows a two-phase application process. Phase one is currently open and will close on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 11:59 PM. Interested applicants should submit a short concept note.
For more information and to apply, visit the application portal: https://www.challenge.gov/?challenge=the-choova-njinga-innovation-challenge WhatsApp +260 772 423 472 or email [email protected]
Join us in harnessing the power of bicycles to create lasting change in Malawi and Zambia!