Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2026

Accelerating business growth for African engineering start ups

The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation was launched in March 2014 to stimulate, celebrate and reward innovation and entrepreneurship across sub-Saharan Africa.

Since then it has provided invaluable training, mentoring and communications support to 165
businesses across 22 countries. It also has an established alumni programme with 71% of Africa Prize alumni currently generating revenue. Our alumni have also raised $39 million in grants and equity.

African innovations funded by the Africa Prize

Support, funding and opportunities for African entrepreneurs

The Africa Prize offers a unique benefits package for up to 16 shortlisted participants to help accelerate their business including:

• Eight month tailored training programme.
• Two fully-funded training weeks: one in the UK and one in a major African city.
• Access to business and technical expertise and sector-specific engineering mentoring.
• Bespoke press coverage and communications support.
• Access to the Academy’s network of high-profile engineers and business experts in the UK and Africa.
• The opportunity for finalists to present their innovation to a judging panel at the Africa Prize showcase event.
• Prize money of up to £50,000.

How to apply

The programme uses a two-stage application process. Please read the Guidance Notes thoroughly for more information on the programme, eligibility and advice on answering the application questions.