The Czech-UNDP Partnership for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is pleased to announce the selection of 13 innovative projects under the 2025 round of the Czech Challenge Fund. As the initiative enters its ninth cycle since its launch in 2018, the Partnership continues to promote the transfer of proven solutions that address development challenges in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ethiopia, Georgia, Cambodia, Moldova, and Zambia, supporting progress toward the SDGs.
The 2025 call attracted a record level of interest, with 141 applications submitted from a wide range of innovators. Following a rigorous evaluation process, 13 projects were selected for implementation over the 2026–2027 period. Together, these initiatives represent a total investment of $748,723,000, including $249,879,340 in co-financing contributed by the innovators. Through this new cohort, the Partnership is supporting a diverse range of innovative solutions across key areas, from environmental sustainability to education and climate resilience, advancing sustainable development in partner countries.
Selected Project Proposals and Their Projects
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, four projects will be implemented:
- Options and the Center for Energy, Energy Efficiency and the Environment will introduce a digital tracking tool for textile and wood SMEs, linking industrial waste flows with community upcycling initiatives to promote circular economy practices and inclusive economic participation.
- Kokoza and its’ local partners, Univerzitet “Džemal Bijedić” u Mostaru and the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Technology, University of Mostar, will launch a hands-on education-to-action program in Mostar, training students in sustainable project management and circular economy practices, enabling them to implement real biowaste reduction pilots in the city.
- University of Banja Luka in partnership with “ELAN STIL ŽIVOTA“ Jovana Cvijanović, will develop a bio-based fungicide from black cumin residues, creating a sustainable agricultural input while engaging farmers and SMEs in eco-friendly crop protection and knowledge transfer.
- Dekonta BH and Institue for public health FBIH will pilot a standardized radon risk assessment system using Czech methodology, creating a “radon passport” framework, training local experts, and laying the groundwork for a future national monitoring program.
In Cambodia, one project will be implemented:
- Brainchain, in partnership with Kokopon, will explore conversion of fruit-processing waste into textile fibers, piloting small-scale extraction and testing economic feasibility to create new income opportunities for smallholder farmers, particularly women.
In Moldova, two projects have been selected:
- Visioncraft, in partnership with Inova Solutions, will deploy AI-powered mobile IoT sensors in Călărași to collect real-time pedestrian and traffic data, enabling safer, more accessible streets for women, children, older adults, and persons with disabilities.
- Business and Professional Women CR (BPWCR), together with Business and Professional Women Moldova, will launch the PANDORA accelerator to strengthen female entrepreneurship through AI/digital skills and EU export readiness training, building long-term local capacity and supporting inclusive economic growth.
In Ethiopia, one project has been selected:
- SG Geotechnika and Arba Minch University will develop a web-based “Enviro Data Lake” integrating environmental monitoring data for improved water management, agriculture, and climate resilience, combined with training for local stakeholders.
Georgia will see the launch of two selected projects
- WATRAD, in partnership with Mr. Dimitri Arindauli, will test the feasibility of converting waste wool into organic fertilizer pellets, introducing circular economy practices that improve soil quality and generate income opportunities for rural communities.
- Consort Georgia, together with Palacký University Olomouc, will strengthen Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) capacity by creating labs, hands-on training, and curricula for specialists, embedding practical AAC knowledge into university programs.
In Zambia, Challenge Fund is supporting three new initiatives:
- Afripoli, and its’ local partners: Lusaka Telecom, Conservation Lower Zambezi and CABI, will deploy mobile solar energy platforms to power irrigation, processing, and conservation activities, providing clean, reliable energy while training farmers and rangers in sustainable operations.
- Přátelé New Renato, together with New Renato Community Society, will establish a community-run sanitation–fertilizer system using dry toilets and composting, generating nutrient-rich fertilizer while promoting hygiene, education, and climate-resilient practices.
- Palacký University Olomouc, in partnership with Caritas Zambia, will introduce a mobile, solar-powered dermatology clinic for persons with albinism, combining hands-on training, community outreach, and reliable off-grid health services.
We are thrilled to watch these innovative solutions take shape and make a meaningful impact. Follow along for updates on the projects we’ll be sharing on our website and on LinkedIn.
About the Czech-UNDP Partnership for SDGs
The Czech-UNDP Partnership supports innovative solutions to tackle development challenges across six priority countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Ethiopia, Cambodia, and Zambia. Projects are implemented by a wide range of actors—including NGOs, private companies, academic institutions, and research centers—with funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic. Through knowledge sharing, local partnerships, and innovation, the initiative contributes to sustainable, inclusive development around the globe.
