The Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) has opened a $12 million funding call for AI and digital technology research in Africa. The initiative targets key sectors like agriculture, health, and education, with a focus on scaling proven innovations and strengthening AI in scientific research.
TL;DR
- SGCI opens $12M funding call for AI and digital tech research in Africa.
- Funding targets agriculture, health, education, and digital skills development.
- Consortia of at least three institutions from three different SGCI countries can apply.
What happened
The Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI), a platform of 20 national science funding councils across sub-Saharan Africa, has launched a call for Expressions of Interest. The $12 million fund supports the African Union's Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2034 (STISA-2034).
The funding is divided into two research avenues: Applications and Learning and Entrepreneurship. Applications focuses on AI tools for priority sectors and scaling proven AI innovations. Learning and Entrepreneurship targets STEM and AI skills programs for African youth, women, and researchers, and support for digital and AI-enabled startups.
Proposals must build on existing continental efforts, including the African Union's Continental AI Strategy and work by AUDA-NEPAD. Each consortium needs at least three institutions from three different SGCI countries, which include Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania.
Why it matters
This funding initiative aims to address the significant gap in compute, connectivity, and digital skills in Africa. With only 40% of the population online and less than 1% of global data centre capacity, this fund could drive substantial progress in AI and digital technology research.
For AI/ML developers and startup founders, this presents a significant opportunity to secure funding for projects that address critical sectors. The focus on scaling proven innovations and strengthening AI in scientific research could lead to impactful developments.
Tech investors should take note of the potential for high-impact investments in AI and digital technology startups in Africa. The emphasis on STEM and AI skills programs also indicates a growing ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Key facts
- Total funding available: $12 million.
- Deadline for Expressions of Interest: September 25, 2026.
- Funding range per member: CA$50,000 to CA$300,000.
- Project duration: Up to 36 months.
- Eligible countries: Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania.
- Eligible institutions: Public and private universities, research organizations, and government research bodies.
- Research avenues: Applications and Learning and Entrepreneurship.
- Focus areas: Agriculture, health, environment, education, and digital skills development.
Context
Africa is home to 18% of the world's people but holds less than 1% of global data centre capacity. Only about 40% of its population is online, highlighting the need for initiatives like the SGCI funding call to bridge these gaps.
The African Union's Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2034 (STISA-2034) aims to foster a more integrated and connected continent. This funding initiative aligns with that vision, targeting key sectors and building on existing continental efforts.
The emphasis on AI and digital technology research is crucial for driving innovation and economic growth in Africa. By supporting both applications and learning and entrepreneurship, the SGCI funding call could have a significant impact on the continent's tech ecosystem.