A new global initiative called Nexa has been launched to support locally led innovations tackling the health impacts of climate change, with a goal of mobilizing over US$50 million in partner investment. The initiative was announced on June 21, 2026, during London Climate Action Week by Grand Challenges Canada (GCC) and the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation). The first funding call opens June 22 for innovations in Africa and the Americas.
Addressing a Growing Crisis
The climate crisis is described in The Lancet as the greatest global health threat of the 21st century, with an estimated 3.6 billion people living in climate-vulnerable regions. Nexa responds to intensifying climate pressures that drive new health risks and strain already overburdened health systems in low- and middle-income countries. Dr. Karlee Silver, CEO of Grand Challenges Canada, said that communities face rapidly growing threats while global climate commitments weaken, and Nexa supports bold, locally led innovation to help people stay healthy.
Informed by Largest Climate-Health Survey
Nexa is informed by findings from the largest climate and health survey to date, which engaged 6,400 respondents across 107 low- and middle-income countries. In 2025, GCC, SFA Foundation, and the Global Grand Challenges Network partnered with The Geneva Learning Foundation to gather insights from health workers, scientists, innovators, policymakers, and humanitarian workers affected by climate-related health threats. The findings are being prepared for publication in an academic journal.
Focus Areas and Funding
The initiative targets three key climate-related drivers of health risks: changing vector patterns (causing malaria and dengue), extreme heat, and poor air quality. Vulnerable populations including pregnant women, children, and those with chronic illnesses are disproportionately affected. Nexa will provide catalytic funding for early-stage and growth-stage innovations. Proof of Concept innovations can receive up to US$200,000 over 18-24 months, while Transition to Scale funding ranges from US$250,000 to $2 million depending on maturity.
Partnerships and Future Plans
Nexa is co-led by GCC and SFA Foundation, with partners including Novo Nordisk Foundation, Sanofi Foundation, Fund for Innovation in Development, and Grand Challenges members in Botswana, Brazil, Malawi, Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa. The Government of Canada is a key supporter. Applications for Africa and the Americas are accepted from June 22 to July 22, 2026, with future calls planned for Asia. Initial investments are expected to begin in early 2027. More information is available at www.nexaclimate.org.