Call for Contributions

CALIBRATE 2026: Scaling Climate Solutions

We invite researchers, innovators, and practitioners to contribute to Africa’s premier climate entrepreneurship summit through research papers and innovation showcases.

May 27-29, 2026 | Accra, Ghana



Important Deadlines

Research Papers

Abstract Submission:January 31, 2026
Notification:February 28, 2026
Full Paper Deadline:April 15, 2026
Final Revisions:May 10, 2026

Innovation Showcase

Application Opens:December 3, 2025
Application Deadline:March 15, 2026
Selection Notification:April 1, 2026
Pitch Competition:May 28, 2026



Contribution Tracks

Choose your track and contribute to Africa’s climate future

Research Papers

Academic Contributions

Publication Opportunity

Selected papers will be considered for publication in the Journal of Nature-Based Solutions and Innovations (JNSI) – a peer-reviewed, open-access journal.

Thematic Areas:

• Climate entrepreneurship and business models
• Nature-based solutions for climate adaptation
• Climate finance and investment mechanisms
• Renewable energy and clean technology
• Sustainable agriculture and food systems
• Water resources and climate resilience
• Climate policy and governance frameworks
• Indigenous knowledge and climate action
• Climate education and capacity building
• Green infrastructure and urban planning

Submission Requirements:

Abstract: 300-500 words
Full Paper: 4,000-8,000 words
Format: APA 7th edition
Language: English
Review: Double-blind peer review

Innovation Showcase

Climate Solutions & Ventures

Feature Opportunity

Outstanding innovations will be featured in Nature-Based Solutions Magazine and eligible for the pitch competition with investment opportunities.

Innovation Categories:

• Clean energy and renewable power
• Sustainable agriculture and AgriTech
• Water purification and management
• Waste management and circular economy
• Climate-smart construction materials
• Green transportation solutions
• Carbon capture and sequestration
• Climate data and monitoring platforms
• Biodiversity conservation technology
• Nature-based climate adaptation tools

Application Requirements:

Pitch Deck: 10-15 slides
Video Demo: 2-3 minutes (optional)
Innovation Brief: 1,000 words max
Impact Metrics: Quantifiable data
Development Stage: Prototype or beyond



Publication & Feature Partners

Amplify your research and innovations through our media partners

JNSI Journal

Journal of Nature-Based Solutions and Innovations

About JNSI:
A peer-reviewed, open-access journal publishing cutting-edge research on climate solutions, environmental innovations, and sustainable development in Africa and beyond.

✓ Open-access publication
✓ Rigorous peer review
✓ Global visibility
✓ Discounted publication fees for selected papers

Visit JNSI Website →

NBS Magazine

Nature-Based Solutions Magazine

About NBS Magazine:
A digital and print publication showcasing innovative climate solutions, entrepreneurship stories, and the people driving Africa’s green transition.

✓ Feature articles
✓ Founder spotlights
✓ Innovation deep-dives
✓ Photo documentation
✓ Social media amplification

Explore NBS Magazine →

Why Contribute?

Benefits for selected contributors

Presentation Platform

Present your work to 200+ climate leaders, investors, and policymakers

Global Visibility

Gain recognition through publication and media coverage across Africa

Networking

Connect with potential collaborators, funders, and implementation partners

Funding Opportunities

Access to investors, pitch competition prizes, and partnership opportunities

Certificates

Recognition certificates and presenter credentials for all accepted contributions

Mentorship

Access to expert mentors and feedback from leading climate professionals



Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit to both tracks?

Yes! If your work has both research and practical innovation components, you may submit to both tracks separately.

Are there submission fees?

No submission fees for abstracts or applications. There are discounted publication fees for papers accepted to JNSI.

Who can submit?

Researchers, academics, students, entrepreneurs, NGO practitioners, and climate professionals from anywhere in the world. We particularly encourage submissions tailored towards Africa-based solutions and innovations.

What happens after acceptance?

Accepted papers: Presentation at conference + JNSI publication consideration. Accepted innovations: Exhibition space + pitch competition eligibility + magazine feature opportunity.

Is virtual presentation available?

This is primarily an in-person event.

Ready to Contribute?

Join us in shaping Africa’s climate future through groundbreaking research and innovative solutions.

SUBMIT RESEARCH PAPERAPPLY FOR SHOWCASE

Questions? Contact us at info@uwse.edu.gh



CALIBRATE 2026
Scaling Climate Solutions: From Innovation to Implementation

May 27-29, 2026 | Accra, Ghana
Organized by University College of Water Science and Engineering and Partners