Applications open for the Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2025 Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation. The Africa Prize is seeking engineers and entrepreneurs who have either developed or are in the process of developing a new technological innovation.

These individuals should possess the ambition to play a leading role in establishing a new business to commercialize their innovation. The innovations should aim to enhance the welfare and economic development of one or more countries in sub-Saharan Africa, and should be specifically designed to address a development need or challenge within that country.

Criteria: Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

Applicants should be in the early stages of commercializing an engineering innovation that meets the following criteria:

1. It should be accompanied by an ambitious yet realistic business plan that demonstrates strong commercial viability.
2. It should have the potential to be replicated and scaled up effectively.
3. It should bring about social and/or environmental benefits to one or more countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
4. It should be based in a country within sub-Saharan Africa and have the potential to benefit that country.

Engineering fields: Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

The innovation can be a new product, technology, or service, based on research in any field of engineering.

• agricultural technology
• biotechnology
• chemical engineering
• civil engineering
• computer science
• design engineering
• electrical and electronic engineering
• materials science
• mechanical engineering
• medical engineering.

Eligibility Requirements for the Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

1. The application for the programme must be completed in English. In order to fully participate in the programme, the applicant must have a high level of proficiency in the English language, as the entire programme is conducted in English.
2. To be eligible for the programme, the lead applicant must be over the age of 18 by the closing date of applications on 25 July 2023. There is no upper age limit for applicants.
3. Previous shortlist members or winners, as well as anyone who was involved in their team or innovation, are not eligible to participate in the programme again.
4. Applicants have the option to apply as an individual or as part of a team.
5. The lead applicant must be a citizen of a country in sub-Saharan Africa*. For teams with two or more members, the lead applicant, who will be participating in the training, must also be a citizen of a country in sub-Saharan Africa*.
6. The lead applicant must be based in sub-Saharan Africa* on a regular basis. If they are based overseas, it must be temporary and for the purpose of studies or other valid reasons.
7. The innovation must be based in a country in sub-Saharan Africa*.
8. While the lead applicant must have an engineering innovation, they are not required to be an engineering graduate or student to apply.

Benefits: Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

1. The Africa Prize offers a comprehensive benefits package for up to 16 shortlisted participants to support the growth of their business. This includes access to business and technical expertise, sector-specific engineering mentoring, bespoke press coverage, and communications support.
2. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in an eight-month tailored training programme and gain access to the Academy’s network of high-profile engineers and business experts in both the UK and Africa.
3. Furthermore, finalists will have the chance to present their innovation to a judging panel at the Africa Prize showcase event.
4. Lastly, there is a prize money of up to £25,000 available for the winners.

Application for the Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation

1. For details Visit the Official Webpage of the Royal Academy of Engineering Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation
2. Deadline: 15 October, 2024