Who is eligible to apply?This call shall be limited to citizens and/or nationals from East, West or Southern Africa who are attached to a university, research institution, private company, or other related organization.
How will you benefit?Funding – Initial investment funding of up to $10,000 for selected innovationsAccess to Networks – Access to development and investor networks from AI4D and Villgro Africa.Investment Readiness – Receive mentorship and training for up to 3 months that will enable you to communicate effectively with potential partners and investors.
Selection CriteriaAn AI-based innovation with the potential for development impact and scale (30 points)An AI-based innovation with the potential for commercial application (25 points)A multidisciplinary team of three (3) members e.g. comprising academia and industry/private sector (20 points).Align with the principles of Responsible AI Design (15 points)Technical proof of concept will be preferred over unproven ideas (10 points).
How to apply?Applicants must first log in to their user account on VC4A to access the full application. If you don’t have a user account on VC4A, you will be asked to signup and complete 3 onboarding questions, before you can start with your application.All applications have to be submitted via the online application form.Application Deadline: April 9, 2021For any questions or additional information, please contact: ai4d@villgroafrica.org