The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2026 is a life-changing, fast-track opportunity for innovators from Sub-Saharan Africa to gain global recognition, funding, and business acceleration support for engineering-based solutions with measurable impact. Just announced by the Royal Academy of Engineering, this program is one of the most respected, official, and transformational awards available on the continent for innovators ready to scale their MVPs or prototypes.
If you’re an inventor, engineer, or entrepreneur with a working innovation addressing a critical problem in your community—such as access to clean energy, food security, affordable healthcare, or digital inclusion—this is your ultimate chance to elevate your solution to a global stage. Not only will shortlisted applicants receive up to £50,000 in prize funding, but they will also gain unbeatable access to high-impact mentorship, investor networks, two all-expenses-paid residencies, and extensive media exposure.
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Every year, 16 talented engineers are selected to undergo an 8-month business and leadership accelerator program that includes bespoke training, international networking opportunities, and pitching experience. The program culminates in a prestigious final pitch event, where the winner walks away with a £25,000 grand prize, while three runners-up receive £10,000 each. Even those not receiving the final award gain life-long access to the Africa Prize alumni network—proven to generate massive opportunities long after the program ends.
The Africa Prize is about building impact-driven businesses—not just prototypes. It’s a groundbreaking gateway for socially conscious entrepreneurs looking to drive long-term change across Africa using sustainable, scalable engineering.
Whether you’re tackling unreliable energy access with clean tech, solving food preservation with smart packaging, or bridging education gaps through affordable edtech tools, this prize is built for solutions that scale and make real social impact.
The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation has been a launchpad for many iconic African entrepreneurs, such as Ugandan innovator Brian Turyabagye (creator of the biomedical jacket for pneumonia detection), or Kenya’s Beth Koigi (developer of affordable atmospheric water generators). Their stories are proof that you don’t need to be rich or famous to make a difference—you just need a prototype, a vision, and the courage to act.
What sets the Africa Prize apart is its holistic support system. It’s not just about awarding money, but about building lasting success. From tailored coaching to high-visibility media features, participants are given every tool needed to bring their idea to life.
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Name of Organizer
Royal Academy of Engineering (United Kingdom)
Requirement/Eligibility
1. The applicant must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country.
2. Applicants must reside in and be based in a country within Sub-Saharan Africa.
3. Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application; there is no upper age limit.
4. Applications must be submitted only in English.
5. The lead applicant can apply as an individual or on behalf of a team (maximum of 3 members for program participation).
6. Applicants must not be a previous finalist of the Africa Prize or a recent participant in other Academy programs.
7. Innovations must be engineering-based, with clear technical elements.
8. Applicants must demonstrate that their innovation addresses critical local or regional challenges (e.g., in health, energy, agriculture, education, water, or ICT).
9. A working prototype or MVP (Minimum Viable Product) must be available and demonstrable at the time of submission.
10. Applicants must be willing and able to participate in virtual workshops, online mentorship, and residency programmes in Africa and the UK if selected.
Duration
The program spans eight months and includes the following stages:
- Virtual training sessions on business, communication, fundraising, IP, market research, leadership, and impact.
- Two residential training weeks, one in Sub-Saharan Africa and the other in the UK, fully sponsored.
- Continuous mentoring and business coaching from engineering and business experts.
- Final pitch event in front of global investors and stakeholders.
- Post-program alumni support, including access to funding, PR, and networking events.
Location
Hybrid model with online components throughout the program.
In-person residencies will take place in Africa (city TBD) and the United Kingdom, all travel and accommodation expenses covered.
Finalists will also attend the Africa Prize Final Pitch Showcase held in Africa.
Deadline
23 September 2025
Apply Now
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