Grace Ashiru
Villgro Africa, in partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation, has opened applications for the Eye Health Innovation Accelerator 2026. This programme is designed to support African startups developing scalable, tech-enabled solutions to improve access to eye care across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Eligible ventures must be legally registered in a Sub-Saharan African country and led by founders or senior executives residing in Africa. Startups should have a validated tech-enabled eye health solution, such as tools for screening, diagnosis, treatment, tele-ophthalmology, AI-driven platforms, data management systems, or affordable assistive technologies. The startups must also demonstrate traction, partnerships, or early revenue.
Selected startups will receive technical assistance, mentorship, and market access support. They will also be eligible for seed funding ranging from US $100,000 to $250,000, with potential follow-on investment. In addition, the programme offers in-person bootcamps and peer-learning sessions to strengthen business models and investment readiness.
The accelerator aims to support high-impact ventures capable of expanding affordable, quality eye care services across low- and middle-income markets, especially where avoidable vision impairment remains high and access to care is limited.
Applications are open until 14 January 2026, with an information session scheduled for 17 December 2025 to guide prospective applicants. Interested startups must submit a completed online application, including a company pitch deck, a summary of existing traction, and optional demo videos or founder pitches.
To apply or learn more, visit the official website.
