The ASCENT PPF Private Sector Support Window: Second Submission Cycle is Now Open!

3 September, 2026

The ASCENT Project Preparation Facility (PPF) Private Sector Support Window remains open. The PPF Manager conducts periodic batch reviews of applications. Applications submitted by 31 August 2026 are currently under review. To be considered in the upcoming review cycle, applications must be submitted by 31 October 2026. Applications received after the deadline will be carried forward to the subsequent review cycle, which is currently planned for early 2027.

We encourage you to review the eligibility requirements and apply during this window. If your company was not eligible during the initial batch review, please consider applying now.

Why the ASCENT PPF? The ASCENT PPF was established to address a critical financing gap facing clean energy companies across Africa: the lack of funding for project preparation activities needed to attract investors and achieve financial close. Through technical assistance and grants, the facility helps promising Distributed Renewable Energy and Clean Cooking businesses become investment-ready and unlock debt, equity, and results-based financing.

Important: The ASCENT PPF support to the private sector does not provide CAPEX financing, working capital, inventory financing, or funding for primary technology development. Support is focused on project preparation, investment readiness, transaction advisory, due diligence, ESG compliance, financial modelling, and other activities that directly contribute to securing financing.

Eligible Countries: Countries participating in ASCENT: Burundi, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia. Please note that additional countries may join the ASCENT Programme in the future and become eligible to access ASCENT PPF support.

Mandatory Requirements:

Certificate of company incorporation or registration

Tax registration certificate (or equivalent)

Audited Financial Statements for FY2024/2025

CVs of key personnel, including the full-time CEO or Managing Director

Signed letters of intent from investors referenced in the application

Eligible Companies Must:

Have at least 3 years of operations and verifiable revenues

Meet the applicable minimum annual revenue threshold: USD 250,000 for Solar Home Systems companies and USD 150,000 for mini-grid, clean cooking and Productive Use of Energy companies.

Have an experienced management team

Be actively engaged with investors or lenders

Be registered in at least one ASCENT country

Apply and review the supporting resources: