500 Global Launches Sustainable Innovation Program Backed by Catalytic Partners - CleanTechnica

500 Global, a prominent venture capital firm, has launched the Sustainable Innovation Program to support founders developing commercially viable, sustainability-focused solutions in the global south. Anchored by the Shell Foundation and co-funded by the UK Government through its Transforming Energy Access (TEA) and Catalysing Agriculture by Scaling Energy Ecosystems (CASEE) programs, this initiative aims to build a network of resources that empower entrepreneurs in sectors such as agriculture, energy, mobility, and the built environment. The program emphasizes local leadership and inclusive innovation to drive sustainable growth and measurable impact, combining strategic capital, multilateral partnerships, and domain expertise. The program debuts with the Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator in Nairobi, an intensive eight-week initiative targeting seed-stage startups across Africa. Participating startups receive mentorship and access to a global network of partners, investors, and operators. Since 2010, 500 Global has invested in over 140 companies across 27 countries that align with sustainability goals, focusing on localized infrastructure to address regional