Llama Impact Grant for Startups and Researchers

Meta, in partnership with Data Science Africa, launches the Llama Impact Grant for startups and researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Are you a startup founder or researcher based in Sub-Saharan Africa with a vision to use AI for social good? Meta, in collaboration with Data Science Africa, is thrilled to introduce the Llama Impact Grant, a unique grant opportunity designed to empower local innovators leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence to address regional challenges.

This initiative is part of Meta’s global Llama Impact Grants program and supports the development of impactful solutions using Llama, Meta’s open-source large language model. With Llama being one of the most widely adopted AI models globally, now accessible for free to developers, this grant aims to unlock its potential in high-impact sectors such as health, agriculture, and science.

Meta recognizes that Artificial Intelligence holds transformative power to increase productivity, unlock economic opportunity, and enable creative solutions in underserved communities. The Llama Impact Grant seeks to support projects that translate this potential into real-world impact across Sub-Saharan Africa.

One winning proposal will be awarded USD $20,000 to support the development and implementation of their idea, with the aim of bringing it to market and creating meaningful change in the region.

Who should apply?

• Startups or registered businesses based in Sub-Saharan Africa

• Academic researchers, individual innovators, or teams working on AI-related projects

• Non-profit or mission-driven organizations applying Llama for social and economic impact

Ideal sectors:

• Healthcare access or diagnostics

• Agricultural productivity or food security

• Scientific research and discovery

• Education

• Any other domain with large-scale community impact

Selection Criteria:

• A clear and compelling use case that leverages Llama

• A strong potential for impact and scalability

• Team composition and expertise

• Ethical and inclusive product development practices

• A realistic budget and development timeline

The selected grantee will receive:

• A USD $20,000 grant to support their AI-powered solution

• Visibility through Meta’s global Llama Impact community

• The chance to contribute to the growing ecosystem of open-source AI in Africa

This is your opportunity to join a global movement and lead AI innovation rooted in local impact.