Mercy Corps Ventures Launches Anticipatory Action Accelerator 2025: Apply for Equity-Free Grants Up to $100,000

Mercy Corps Ventures Launches Anticipatory Action Accelerator 2025: Apply for Equity-Free Grants Up to $100,000

Mercy Corps Ventures (MCV) is opening applications for its Anticipatory Action Accelerator 2025, a new initiative designed to enhance humanitarian aid through innovative solutions. This accelerator builds on previous successful pilots in Kenya and Nepal and will support startups, NGOs, and other organizations working to improve disaster response through proactive measures, such as climate data analytics, AI/ML, and crypto payment systems. The program aims to usher in a new era of humanitarian assistance.

Goals of the Accelerator

The primary objectives of the Anticipatory Action Accelerator are to:

  1. Identify Promising Solutions: The initiative seeks to discover and fund innovative anticipatory action solutions that help climate-vulnerable populations prepare for the impacts of climate change.
  2. Build a Strong Evidence Base: The accelerator aims to create a solid portfolio of pilots to prove that anticipatory action can be a more effective, efficient, and equitable way to deliver humanitarian aid.
  3. Scale Up Programs Globally: The program intends to expand anticipatory action programs worldwide, drawing in new capital to support this crucial approach.

Addressing the Humanitarian Challenge

Every year, millions of people across the globe are in need of humanitarian aid. In 2023, $223.7 billion was allocated for humanitarian assistance, roughly equivalent to the annual GDP of countries like New Zealand, Portugal, and Qatar. Despite this substantial amount, nearly 99% of humanitarian aid is reactive, coming only after disasters have already occurred. In contrast, just 1% of funds are directed toward proactive efforts aimed at reducing or managing risks before disasters strike.

Many humanitarian crises are, in fact, predictable, with more than half being foreseen and 20% of them being highly predictable. Research indicates that anticipatory action is up to seven times more cost-effective than traditional aid methods, offering the opportunity to address crises before they escalate.

Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to organizations that are actively piloting anticipatory action solutions to improve the delivery of humanitarian aid. These organizations should operate in the following regions:

  • Africa
  • South and Southeast Asia
  • Latin America
  • The Caribbean
  • The Middle East
  • Pacific Islands
  • Western Balkans

Program Benefits

Selected participants in the accelerator will receive several key benefits:

  • Equity-Free Grants: Up to $100,000 will be awarded based on the achievement of pre-agreed milestones.
  • Mentorship: Applicants will gain access to experienced mentors who can provide guidance throughout the process.
  • Impact Measurement Advisory: MCV will offer support in measuring the impact of the projects.
  • Partnership Opportunities: The program will connect participants to potential partnerships for scaling their solutions.
  • Knowledge Exchange: Participants will benefit from a platform to share insights and learn from other innovators.
  • Brand Exposure: The accelerator provides opportunities for visibility and recognition in the humanitarian sector.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Mercy Corps Ventures Anticipatory Action Accelerator is February 14, 2025.

How to Apply

To apply for the program, interested organizations can visit the official application page here:
Apply for Mercy Corps Ventures Anticipatory Action Accelerator 2025.

Important Dates

EventDate
Application DeadlineFebruary 14, 2025

This accelerator represents a significant opportunity to drive change in the way humanitarian aid is delivered globally. By promoting anticipatory actions, Mercy Corps Ventures is shaping a more proactive and sustainable future for vulnerable populations affected by climate change.

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