The Ghana Climate Innovation Center has graduated 20 businesses from the final cohort of its Supporting the Green Economy (SURGE) programme, marking the successful conclusion of a five-year partnership with Global Affairs Canada.

The graduation ceremony, held in Accra on March 21, 2026, brought together entrepreneurs, development partners, investors, and ecosystem players to celebrate a new generation of climate-focused businesses delivering practical, market-ready solutions. These enterprises operate across key sectors, including renewable energy, agriculture, waste management, and water systems, areas critical to Ghana’s sustainable development.

Implemented by GCIC, an institute of Ashesi University, the SURGE programme was designed to equip climate entrepreneurs with the tools needed to scale. Through a combination of technical training, tailored mentorship, access to catalytic funding, and market linkages, the initiative has strengthened the capacity of startups to build resilient and environmentally sustainable businesses.

Over the course of six cohorts, the programme supported 140 enterprises across the country, achieving near gender parity and delivering significant economic and environmental impact. Collectively, participating businesses created more than 2,100 jobs, generated over $12.4 million in revenue, and helped avoid approximately 832,000 metric tons of carbon emissions. In addition, these enterprises reached over 5.7 million customers with climate-smart products and services.

Speaking at the event, GCIC Executive Director Pearl Esua-Mensah underscored the programme’s transformative role in Ghana’s innovation ecosystem. She noted that the SURGE initiative was built on the belief that local entrepreneurs, when adequately supported, can develop solutions that address climate challenges while driving economic growth.

She emphasized that the results achieved over the five years demonstrate the viability of climate-focused entrepreneurship, adding that the programme has helped unlock capital, accelerate job creation, and position participating businesses for long-term growth.

Also addressing the gathering, representatives from Global Affairs Canada highlighted the importance of sustained partnerships in driving inclusive and sustainable development. They noted that the SURGE programme exemplifies how targeted support can enable locally led solutions to thrive while advancing climate action goals.

Beyond the numbers, several entrepreneurs from the graduating cohort shared testimonials on the programme’s impact. They pointed to the value of practical masterclasses, strategic mentorship, and hands-on guidance from dedicated project managers, which helped refine their business models, strengthen operations, and improve market positioning. The programme’s alumni network was also cited as a key benefit, fostering ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange among climate-focused enterprises.

With the final cohort now graduated, GCIC is looking ahead to building on the successes of the SURGE programme. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners, including Global Affairs Canada, to expand support for innovative businesses that are driving Ghana’s transition to a green economy.

As the curtain falls on the SURGE programme, its legacy is expected to endure through the continued growth of the businesses it has supported, enterprises that are not only creating jobs and generating revenue but also delivering lasting environmental impact across Ghana.