Empowering Iraq’s Water and Climate Innovators: Apply to the Water and Climate Accelerator

Water is life - and in Iraq, water resources are under significant pressure. The Water and Climate Accelerator in Iraq is open for applications, seeking businesses ready to tackle the country’s water and climate challenges with innovative, scalable solutions.

This accelerator is an opportunity to grow, connect, and create impact. Whether the business is addressing water-saving, efficiency, supply, treatment, or reuse and recycling, the programme is for businesses with proven models and the drive to scale their impact across Iraq.

What does the programme offer?

By joining the Water and Climate Accelerator, business gain access to:

1. Tailored Mentorship Work with expert coaches to refine your business strategy, develop scalable solutions, and position yourself for long-term growth.
2. Capacity-Building Bootcamps Participate in in-person bootcamps in Iraq, featuring intensive sessions to strengthen your technical, business, and investment readiness.
3. Networking with Industry Leaders Build relationships with investors, policymakers, and other entrepreneurs to expand your market opportunities.
4. Catalytic Grant Opportunities Eligible businesses may access grants to pilot or scale high-impact projects, turning ideas into actionable solutions.
5. On-the-Ground Support Implement real-world projects with tailored technical and financial support, ensuring sustainable results.

Who is the accelerator looking for?

Innovative water-centric businesses that meet the following criteria:

• Scalable solutions: The businesses should tackle water conservation, supply, quality improvement, or reuse for domestic, industrial, or agricultural sectors.
• Operational maturity: Active businesses for 1–2 years with recurring sales from an established customer base.
• High potential for growth: The businesses are ready to scale operations, expand impact, and maximise profitability.
• Market-based model: A clear revenue model is essential; we will not work with donation-reliant NGOs.
• Diverse teams: Preference will be given to businesses led by or including refugees, women, and youth.

Programme Structure

This blended accelerator will run from January 2025 to March 2026 and combines:

• Offline activities: Face-to-face bootcamps held in Iraq (exact locations TBC).
• Online sessions: Virtual coaching and input sessions for tailored support.
• Field implementation: Pilot projects with technical guidance and funding.

Participants should expect to dedicate 4+ hours per week, with increased commitments during bootcamps and key programme milestones.

Implementation Mode

Why now?

Iraq is at a pivotal moment in addressing water scarcity and climate challenges. This programme is designed to empower local innovators with the tools, networks, and resources to drive transformative change. Safeguarding Iraq’s water resources for future generations.

How can businesses apply?

• Applications must be submitted here
• Deadline: 31 December 2024
• Missed the live Q&A session? Watch the recording here

Partners

This initiative is led by Cewas , with generous support from The Coca-Cola Foundation.

Communications partners:

• Main Communications Partner: QAF Lab
• KAPITA Business Hub
• Takween Accelerator
• Five One Labs

For more information, visit: cwca.creation.camp.

We encourage businesses not to miss this opportunity as seats are limited!

For contact:

[email protected]