FULLY FUNDED: Apply for the Inclusive AI Innovations in Africa Programme

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FULLY FUNDED: Apply for the Inclusive AI Innovations in Africa Programme

Applications are open for the Inclusive AI Innovations in Africa Programme under the Hub for Artificial Intelligence and Disability Inclusion (HAIDI) Innovation Track. This initiative is designed to support African innovators, researchers, startups, developers, and organizations that are building responsible artificial intelligence solutions aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities across Africa. The programme seeks to accelerate AI innovations that have already moved beyond the prototype stage and demonstrate strong potential for scaling their impact across communities and countries on the continent. Selected participants will receive financial support, technical assistance, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate directly with disability communities to ensure their solutions are practical, accessible, and impactful.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link to apply

Host Institution

The programme is implemented through the Hub for Artificial Intelligence and Disability Inclusion (HAIDI) under the broader AI4D initiative. AI4D promotes safe, inclusive, responsible, and rights-based AI development across Africa and other regions of the Global South.

Program Type

Fully Funded

Program Benefits

Selected innovators will receive grants of up to KES 5,000,000 (or the equivalent amount in U.S. dollars) to support the scaling of their AI solutions. In addition to funding, participants will benefit from extensive technical, product development, and scaling support from experts. The programme also provides opportunities for user testing and validation with disability communities across Africa, helping innovators improve the accessibility and effectiveness of their technologies. Participants will gain access to strategic partnerships, expert networks, and future funding opportunities that can help them expand the reach and sustainability of their innovations.

Eligibility Criteria

The programme is open to a wide range of applicants from across Africa. Eligible applicants include AI startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, individual innovators, researchers, universities, research institutions, and multi-stakeholder consortia. Applicants must have AI-powered solutions that are already operational and being used in real-world settings. The programme specifically targets innovations that have progressed beyond the minimum viable product (MVP) stage and can demonstrate evidence of impact as well as readiness for growth and expansion. Solutions should focus on advancing disability inclusion and should be developed using responsible, ethical, and inclusive AI principles. Projects that actively engage persons with disabilities in their design and implementation are especially encouraged.

Eligible Countries

The opportunity is open to eligible innovators, startups, researchers, institutions, and organizations based in African countries. Solutions should be designed to create impact for disability inclusion within Africa and demonstrate potential for continental scale.

Application Procedure

Click the official link below to apply for this opportunity

Official Link

https://www.ai4d.ai/calls/inclusive-ai-innovations-in-africa