The preliminary jury of the Postcode Lottery Green Challenge 2015 has selected a longlist of 25 entries. For the first time in the history of the competition, the list shows a broader geographical mix than ever, including more African entries. There is also a new trend; an increase in food-related innovations.
The three African startups included in the list are Mellowcabs from South Africa, ColdHubs from Nigeria and EcoPost from Kenya.
Mellowcabs manufactures, and operates new, electric mini-cabs that provide low cost, eco-friendly and convenient taxi and transport services in cities. It fills the gap for commuters needing micro transport within a three mile radius, and can easily be hailed via the Mellowcabs app or website. It was founded by Neil Du Preez.
ColdHubs are modular, solar-powered walk-in cold rooms that provides 24/7 off-grid storage and preservation of perishable food for smallholder farmers in Africa. The Hubs are installed in markets and farms within the reach of farmers and retailers. It was started by Nnaemeka Ikegwuonu.
EcoPost is an award-winning Eco-friendly recycled plastic and wood waste initiative that provides a superior alternative to real wood, a waste management solution and hundreds of job opportunities. It was founded by Lorna Rutto.
The Postcode Lottery Green Challenge is is the largest annual and international green business plan competition. The competition started in 2007, after being inspired by president Clinton to look for those dedicated entrepreneurs with brilliant green business plans. The winner gets 500,000 EUR to help bring her or his plan to market.
The plan
- should have the potential to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by an amount you can roughly estimate;
- should be developed enough to execute;
- should be realisable as a usable product or service within the next two years; and
- should preferably have integrated Cradle2Cradle principles in their designs
Besides these criteria, the jury will also look at factors as: Communication potential, courageousness and creativity.
The five finalists that will move on to the finale will be announced on the 17th of August. These finalists will present their plans before an international jury and invited guests on September 10 in Amsterdam. The jury will decide who goes home with the grand prize of €500,000 and runner-up prize of €200,000.
Can any of the African startups win the €500,000?
