The Energy for Rural Start-Ups initiative is a joint venture between Caritas Switzerland and Power-Blox AG, pioneering rural electrification in Ethiopia. Partnering with local entities, it integrates experiences from other African regions. Utilizing Swiss-developed Powerblox (PBX) swarm battery technology, the initiative aims to provide last-mile connections to off-grid rural households, bridging gaps between solar home systems and larger mini-grids, thus accelerating governmental electrification plans. In its first phase (June 2023 – January 2024), 87 Powerblox were installed, empowering 14 micro-enterprises, 2 cooperatives, and 6 public institutions in the rural off-grid areas of Goba, Medawolabu Oborso, Arero, and Teltele woredas of Bale, East Borana, and East zones of Oromia Region, Southern Ethiopia. Beyond electrifying businesses, it piloted new energy-driven business models, diversified revenue streams, and electrified neighbouring households. With a remarkable 92% payback rate within 10 months, the initiative highlights how reliable electricity access fosters economic growth, household resilience, and social inclusion. Scaling up, the initiative aims to install 7,000 Powerblox, electrify 100,000 households and 1,000 health centres, and empower 5,000 SMEs, transitioning towards a private sector-driven electrification rollout. Upon achieving this scale, a sustainable financing and operational model, including post-sales support, will ensure long-term impact and success.