The UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program 2025-26 is an incredible opportunity for startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators focused on developing scalable, open-source digital infrastructure solutions that connect schools to the internet globally. This program offers a non-dilutive grant of up to $50,000 USD, alongside mentorship, technical guidance, and access to an extensive network of global partners—all designed to support growth-stage organizations advancing digital inclusion in education. The application deadline for this prestigious program is September 21, 2025.

Basic Information about the UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program

The Giga Accelerator, a joint initiative by UNICEF and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), targets innovative solutions that connect underserved and unserved schools. The program is primarily virtual but anchored at the Giga Technology Centre in Barcelona, Spain, including two in-person events scheduled for December 2025 and March 2026. The cohort will also have the chance to showcase solutions at the Mobile World Congress 2026. The program runs for five months, starting in October 2025 and ending in February 2026. The aim is to accelerate startups whose products are at least at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or higher, meaning the products should be at the proof of concept or prototype stage.

Goals

Support product development with funding and mentorship
Ensure commercial viability and interoperability
Build partnerships in the telecom sector

University/Institution Details

The program is hosted under the Giga initiative, which is a collaboration between UNICEF and ITU. It is anchored at the Giga Technology Centre in Barcelona, Spain. The delivery is mainly virtual, with access to global mentorship and partnerships provided through UNICEF and ITU networks, alongside program management facilitated by Plug and Play, a well-known startup accelerator.

Study Areas (Available Program Names)

Although not a traditional academic scholarship, the program focuses on the following areas:

Connectivity in infrastructure-limited areas
Affordable and sustainable business/financing models
Internet provision for underserved peri-urban and rural areas
Optimized, adaptable, and easy-to-deploy solutions
Reducing operational barriers for connectivity providers

UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program Benefits

Participants in the UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program can expect the following benefits:

$50,000 USD non-dilutive grant for product development, market adaptation, regulatory compliance, and operational expenses tied to the project.
Global mentorship from experts in technology, policy, investment, and business scaling.
Access to UNICEF and ITU’s global network comprising telecom providers, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners.
Visibility and exposure through high-profile events such as Mobile World Congress and Giga Connectivity Forum, plus participation in community events in Barcelona.
Support for scaling solutions globally, enabling pilot programs and sustainable market deployment.
Learning opportunities from workshops, expert-led sessions, and curated connections with telecom and digital education sectors.

Benefits Not Included

The program covers travel expenses for the two required in-person gatherings in Barcelona, but it does not include broader living or educational costs. It is not a full academic scholarship covering tuition or living expenses for university study; rather, it is an accelerator grant focused on business and product development within digital connectivity innovation.

Eligibility Criteria for the UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program

To qualify for the Giga Accelerator Program, applicants must meet these conditions:

Be a registered legal entity in an International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Member State.
No major ongoing litigation related to prohibited practices.
Demonstrate financial solvency to show the entity is a going concern.
The product must have reached at least Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or higher — proof of concept or prototype stage.
The solution must be open-source or the applicant must commit to open-source contribution before program completion.
Priority is given to solutions for underserved and remote areas, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and scalability.
Organizations based in Spain and women-led enterprises are especially encouraged to apply.
Applicants from all countries worldwide are eligible, provided they meet the above criteria.

Selection Criteria:

Product scalability
Team expertise
Technical solution maturity
Social impact and program alignment
Innovation

Required Documents for the Application

Applicants must prepare the following materials to apply:

Completed application form from the official portal.
Proof of legal registration and documents confirming compliance with ITU regulations.
A self-assessment report demonstrating that the product meets TRL 4 or above.
A declaration form confirming open-source commitment or current open-source licensing.
Pitch deck outlining the organization’s product, business model, impact potential, and team expertise (strongly recommended).
Financial documents to prove solvency.
Any additional supporting materials to demonstrate innovation and scalability.

UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)

Research & Prepare: Review the program details on the official Giga website and gather your documents.
Application Submission: Complete and submit the online application before the deadline (September 21, 2025).
Review & Shortlisting: The selection committee evaluates applications based on innovation, viability, technical readiness, scalability, and social impact.
Selection Announcement: Successful applicants will be informed by early October 2025.
Program Kickoff: Participate in the five-month accelerator program starting October 2025, combining virtual workshops, mentorship, and strategic sessions.
In-Person Events: Attend two mandatory gatherings in Barcelona for Community Day and Demo Day.
Demo & Scaling Opportunities: Pitch solutions at Mobile World Congress 2026 with exposure to global stakeholders.

Tips for a Successful Application

Clearly demonstrate your product’s Technology Readiness Level and its concrete impact on school connectivity.
Emphasize your commitment to open source and provide documentation or a plan for open-source contribution.
Showcase your team’s expertise and the scalability and sustainability of your solution.
Prepare a professional and compelling pitch deck highlighting your innovation, market fit, and social impact.
Ensure all legal and financial documentation is complete and accurate.
Highlight any previous partnerships or success stories related to digital inclusion or infrastructure.
Tailor your application to align with Giga’s mission of connecting underserved and remote schools.
Apply before the September 21, 2025 deadline to avoid disqualification.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)

While the program focuses on startups and solutions rather than traditional study, for those relocating to Barcelona for the in-person events, typical monthly living costs would be approximately:

Accommodation: $800 – $1,200
Food: $300 – $400
Transportation: $50 – $100
Miscellaneous (utilities, internet, leisure): $150 – $200
Total estimated monthly living expenses: $1,300 to $1,900 USD [general living costs estimate for Barcelona].

Why Choose This Scholarship? Top 5 Reasons

Significant Grant Funding: Receive $50,000 USD in non-dilutive, equity-free funding to boost your innovation without giving up ownership.
Global Exposure: Gain opportunities to showcase your solutions at international venues like the Mobile World Congress and Giga Connectivity Forum.
Expert Mentorship: Access specialized support from leaders in technology, policy, and business scaling in the digital inclusion ecosystem.
Valuable Networks: Connect with a robust network of partners, including governments, telecom operators, NGOs, and investors to scale your impact.
Focused on Impact: Join a mission-driven initiative aimed at connecting underserved schools worldwide, promoting digital equity and inclusion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What kind of organizations can apply?
A1: Legal entities such as startups, NGOs, and enterprises registered in ITU member states with growth-stage, technology-ready solutions for school connectivity.

Q2: Is the grant equity-free?
A2: Yes, the $50,000 USD grant is non-dilutive, meaning no equity or ownership is taken from the recipient.

Q3: Do I have to relocate to Barcelona?
A3: Most of the program is virtual, but attendance is required at two in-person events in Barcelona in December 2025 and March 2026, with travel costs covered by the program.

Q4: What is the application deadline?
A4: The application window closes on September 21, 2025.

Q5: Are women-led and Spain-based organizations favored?
A5: Yes, these groups are particularly encouraged to apply but the program is open globally.

Official Link:

The UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program 2025-26 is a top-tier opportunity to secure funding, mentorship, and global visibility while contributing to bridging the digital divide and connecting schools worldwide with innovative, open-source solutions for sustainable internet access.

UNICEF Giga Accelerator Program 2025-26 in Spain: Grant of $50,000