Deadline: 24nd November 2026
The 8th Annual African Innovation Fellowship (AIF) is officially open for applications!
This eight-month hybrid leadership and business development programme is designed early-stage or start-up, female-owned STEM innovations across Sub-Saharan Africa. Through AIF, you’ll access mentorship, leadership training, business development support, and the chance to pitch for funding.
Founders from the AIF programme have gone on to grow their businesses, achieve global recognition and win the African Prize for Engineering Innovation.
You could be next!
Benefits
- Mentorship: Access to a network of experienced mentors and industry experts.
- Workshops and Training: Comprehensive training in business development, including; market access, product strategy, external factors, commercial models.
- Co-working Space: Access to a dedicated workspace equipped with essential resources.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and potential collaborators.
- Pitch Opportunities: Present your startup to potential investors and partners.
- Exposure: Showcase your innovation to a global audience.
EligibilityÂ
- Applicants must own a registered, innovative STEM-based business or startup in sub-Saharan Africa.
- The innovation should be in the early stages of commercialization and demonstrate potential for social and/or environmental impact.
- Individual applicants must be citizens of a sub-Saharan African country. For teams, the lead applicant must be a citizen of a sub-Saharan African country.
- Applicants must not be alumni (or co-founders of alumni) of the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation.
- Applicants must identify as women, be 18 years or older, and demonstrate a strong commitment to entrepreneurship.
- Availability to participate in the eight-month programme (November 2025 – June 2026), including travel.
- Applicants must hold a valid passport.
For more information and application