MEDIA RELEASE

The Official Launch of the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP) in Namibia and
Fundraising 101 for Namibian Cleantech

Windhoek, Namibia – January 30, 2025 – To bridge the funding gap faced by Namibian cleantech
entrepreneurs, a crucial session titled Fundraising 101 for Namibian Cleantech Entrepreneurs: An
Introductory Session on How to Find Funding for Startups was hosted on January 29, 2025. The event,
organised by the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF), Co-Creation Hub (CcHUB), the
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the Network for Global Innovation
(NGIN), aimed to equip Namibian entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate early-
stage fundraising.
The session provided a thorough exploration of early-stage funding sources accessible in Namibia and
internationally. It covered investor expectations, various investment types, and key valuation criteria for
startups. Additionally, discussions highlighted the impact of policies on SMEs and cleantech ventures,
best practices for creating persuasive investor pitches, and diverse perspectives on startup funding,
including banking, risk capital, and corporate agreements.
Speaking at the event was the Environmental Commissioner, Mr. Timoteus Mufeti, “Namibia stands at
a defining moment in its pursuit of a low-carbon, sustainable economy. As a government, we are aware
of the growing threats posed by climate change. That is why Namibia’s commitment to global climate
action under the leadership and coordination of the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism is
unwavering. We have ratified all key multilateral climate agreements, including the Paris Agreement,
and remain dedicated to limiting global temperature rise to well below 2°C, striving for 1.5°C. This
commitment is reflected in our ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which provide a
clear framework for emissions reduction” he said.

Mr. Benedict Libanda, Chief Executive Officer of the EIF said that the GCIP is more than just a program.
“ It is a long-term investment in Namibia’s future. Over the next 36 months, with an allocated budget of
over N$16,000,000.00, this initiative will make a tangible impact, including the mitigation of
approximately 45,000 metric tons of CO₂e through the implementation of cleantech solutions. The GCIP
will also lay a strong foundation by establishing a national training framework, equipping cleantech
entrepreneurs and mentors with the skills they need to succeed. It will support over 80 enterprises,
offering them access to innovative financial mechanisms and tailored financial support to drive their
cleantech innovations. Additionally, by working closely with policymakers, GCIP Namibia will help
develop and submit gender-responsive cleantech innovation policies, ensuring alignment with both
national priorities and international sustainability goals” he said.
This successful session marked a significant step in Namibia’s journey toward fostering a robust
cleantech ecosystem. As Namibia continues to position itself as a leader in climate resilience and green
innovation, empowering entrepreneurs with the right financial knowledge and resources will be critical
in achieving long-term sustainability goals.
The session was moderated by Ms. Aina-Maria Iteta, EIF Executive: Business Strategy and
Performance Management, and featured a distinguished panel of industry leaders and investors.

About the GCIP
The Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP) in Namibia is an initiative led by the United
Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in partnership with the Global Environment
Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). GCIP aims to promote innovation and
entrepreneurship in emerging markets and developing economies to address climate and
environmental challenges. In Namibia, the program focuses on supporting startups and small and
medium enterprises SMEs with innovative cleantech ideas, helping them establish up-scale business
models. GCIP also strengthens entrepreneurship ecosystems and facilitates partnerships and
networking between private and public actors to ensure the long-term sustainability of its interventions.

About EIF
The Environmental Investment Fund (EIF) is a fund created by Act 13 of 2001 of the Parliament of the
Republic of Namibia with the overall aim of continuing this great legacy by supporting individuals,
projects and communities that ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. The EIF is building a
sustainable fund that supports a variety of new and existing initiatives in the country. In doing so, we
create partnerships with NGOs, Government, community-based organisations and the business
community to ensure that our projects are well–positioned in the socio-economic and environmental
tapestry of development, and to guarantee the buy–in of our local and international stakeholders.

For further information, please contact:

GCIP Project Coordinator
Tjingeje Tjipueja
Tel: +264 81 3026477
Email: ttjipueja@eif.org.na

Acting Manager: Programmes and Programming
Charity Sihope
Tel: +264 815986048
Email: csihope@eif.org.na