Emerging markets across Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are rapidly becoming the epicenter of the global energy transition. In these regions, the challenges of unreliable grids, limited access to clean energy, and surging demand are met with a wave of digital innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. The Community Impact category of the Global EnergyTech Awards, established by Publicis Sapient, shines a spotlight on the startups and organizations that are not only addressing these challenges but are also creating scalable, community-driven solutions that inspire the world.
Emerging markets face a complex energy landscape. Many communities contend with:
Despite these barriers, emerging markets are rich in renewable resources and home to entrepreneurs who are harnessing digital tools to accelerate progress. The result is a wave of innovation deeply rooted in local knowledge and designed for maximum impact.
The Global EnergyTech Awards have become a platform for recognizing and accelerating transformative solutions in these regions. In 2023, the Community Impact category was introduced to honor organizations making a tangible difference at the grassroots level. Recent recipients include:
ProGreen Innovation has developed a platform that leverages mobile technology to connect rural households with affordable solar solutions. By integrating digital payments and remote monitoring, they ensure customers can access, pay for, and maintain their energy systems with ease. This approach not only improves grid reliability but also creates new economic opportunities for local agents and technicians, demonstrating how digital tools can drive both energy access and local employment.
ENVenture’s model focuses on building capacity within communities by training local entrepreneurs to distribute and service clean energy products. Through digital tools for inventory management and customer engagement, ENVenture has scaled its impact across multiple regions. This combination of technology and grassroots empowerment is a powerful example of how local talent development and digital innovation can go hand in hand.
Leaders from these award-winning organizations consistently highlight the importance of digital transformation in overcoming traditional barriers. As one founder noted, “Digital platforms allow us to reach customers in remote areas, track system performance in real time, and adapt our offerings based on data. This agility is essential in markets where conditions can change rapidly.”
Another innovator emphasized the value of global recognition: “Being part of the Global EnergyTech Awards has opened doors to new partnerships and funding opportunities. It validates our work and connects us to a community of like-minded changemakers.”
Publicis Sapient’s commitment to sustainability and digital transformation extends to supporting innovators in emerging markets. Through the Global EnergyTech Awards, winners receive not only recognition but also practical support, including:
This support is designed to help startups overcome barriers to growth and maximize their impact, both locally and globally.
The momentum in emerging markets is undeniable. As digital and renewable solutions continue to mature, the potential for scalable, community-driven impact grows. Key priorities for the future include:
Publicis Sapient remains committed to championing the innovators who are redefining what’s possible in energy. By spotlighting their achievements and providing the tools to scale, we aim to accelerate the global transition to a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient energy future.
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