TEA-LP Rolling Fund reflections from an Ethiopian energy entrepreneur

Participating in the TEA-LP Rolling Fund was a defining step in my professional journey as a founder working on clean energy innovation in Ethiopia. I applied because I had reached a stage where my passion and commitment were strong, but I needed practical exposure, technical guidance, and opportunities to learn directly from experts. While developing renewable energy solutions that convert organic waste into upgraded biogas and organic fertiliser, I realised that building a successful innovation requires much more than laboratory knowledge. It demands continuous learning, mentorship, industry exposure, and meaningful professional networks. The Rolling Fund represented an opportunity to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical implementation.

The funded activities focused primarily on capacity building, mentorship, technical field visits, product development support, and participation in networking events, trainings, and masterclasses. These activities were especially important because my work combines engineering, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Through the support provided by the fund, I was able to engage with professors, experienced engineers, and industry professionals who guided me in improving my technical understanding of biogas upgrading technologies, engineering design, and product development. Visiting facilities and interacting with practitioners also allowed me to observe how technical concepts are applied in real-world settings, helping me refine my own approach to developing practical clean energy solutions.

Without the Rolling Fund, participating in these activities would have been extremely difficult. As an early-stage entrepreneur from a developing country, financial limitations often restrict access to specialised training, technical mentorship, conferences, and field visits. The costs of travel, registration, and professional development opportunities can easily become barriers that delay innovation and reduce opportunities for growth. The fund removed these obstacles by enabling me to invest directly in my own development. Instead of postponing important learning experiences, I was able to participate at the right time when my startup was actively developing its technology.

The outcomes of these activities have been both immediate and long-lasting. From a technical perspective, I strengthened my understanding of engineering principles related to renewable energy systems and product development. Discussions with professors and technical experts improved my confidence in evaluating design decisions, troubleshooting engineering challenges, and refining the technical aspects of my innovation. The mentorship I received also helped me think more systematically about transforming research into practical solutions that respond to real market needs.

Beyond technical knowledge, networking opportunities created new collaborations and professional relationships. By participating in training, mentorship sessions, and masterclasses, I connected with entrepreneurs, researchers, and professionals who shared valuable experiences and different perspectives. These interactions broadened my understanding of innovation ecosystems and demonstrated the importance of collaboration in addressing complex environmental and energy challenges. Some of these relationships continue to provide advice, encouragement, and opportunities for future partnerships.

The experience also strengthened my entrepreneurial mindset. I gained a better appreciation of product validation, customer-centered innovation, and the importance of continuous improvement. Rather than focusing only on technology, I learned to consider how engineering decisions influence usability, scalability, and long-term sustainability. This balanced perspective has become an important part of how I approach both product development and strategic decision-making within my startup.

The support from the Rolling Fund has significantly strengthened my capacity as both an engineer and an entrepreneur. I now approach technical challenges with greater confidence because I have benefited from expert guidance and practical exposure. My communication skills have also improved through participation in workshops and professional discussions, allowing me to explain technical concepts more effectively to different audiences, including partners, investors, and community stakeholders. Furthermore, the mentorship I received encouraged me to remain curious, seek evidence-based solutions, and continuously improve my work through learning and collaboration.

Perhaps the most valuable takeaway from this experience is the realisation that investing in people is just as important as investing in technology. Technical innovation grows faster when individuals have access to mentors, supportive networks, and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals. The Rolling Fund did more than finance activities; it created an environment where I could expand my knowledge, strengthen my confidence, and build relationships that will continue to influence my career.

Overall, the TEA-LP Rolling Fund has played an important role in my professional development. The combination of mentorship, technical learning, field exposure, networking, and capacity-building opportunities has enhanced my ability to develop impactful renewable energy solutions. I am grateful for the opportunity because the experience has equipped me with stronger technical skills, broader professional networks, and a deeper understanding of how innovation can create sustainable impact. These lessons will continue to guide my work as I contribute to expanding clean energy access and developing environmentally responsible technologies.

– Written by Mekides Ashagre

The TEA-LP is supported by UKAID under the Transforming Energy Access Platform.