The UNDP Acceleration Pilot Programme for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Startups in Africa 2024 aims to build a strong AI ecosystem in Africa. Apply below.
When is the application deadline:
The application deadline for UNDP’s Acceleration Pilot Programme for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Startups in Africa 2024 is 5 August 2024, 11:59 UTC+3.
Tell us about the award:
The pilot program, which will run from September to October 2024, aims to foster innovation and partnerships across three key pillars that underpin Africa’s local AI ecosystem: data, compute, and talent pipeline. By focusing on these foundational elements, the pilot program seeks to address the need for an integrated private sector approach to mitigate risks and unlock the transformative power of AI for sustainable development. The program aims to support innovation that is local, people- and sustainability-centered, and ensures that innovations benefit communities in the countries where they are designed.
Additionally, as part of the program, selected startups will have the opportunity to participate in an ecosystem-building event hosted by INNOVIT and the Italian G7 Presidency in San Francisco, California, USA from November 12-14, 2024. During the event, selected startups will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions, attract potential investments, form strategic partnerships and network with INNOVIT’s startup network and Silicon Valley AI leaders.
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What areas are covered?
AI Startups
type:
Accelerated Program
Who can apply to UNDP’s Startup Acceleration Pilot Programme in Africa?
Furthermore, applicants who wish to apply for this opportunity must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Be based in one of the nine pilot countries outlined in the Italy-Africa Mattei Plan (Algeria, Republic of the Congo (Republic of the Congo Brazzaville), Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique or Tunisia) Develop or aim to develop AI solutions that address one or more of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on education and training, energy, health, agriculture, water and infrastructure (both physical and digital) Contribute to one of the three pillars of the AI for Sustainable Development Hub (distribution and affordability of computing, talent development and orchestration, data quality, accessibility and digitalization) Demonstrate a commitment to responsible and sustainable AI development and deployment practices Demonstrate professional level proficiency in English, which is mandatory for at least one of your team members (who will also be expected to participate in the program’s face-to-face activities) How will applicants be selected?
A committee made up of stakeholders from various sectors will evaluate applications based on eligibility criteria and alignment with the program objectives.
Which countries are covered?
The eligible countries are as follows:
Algeria Republic of the Congo (Republic of the Congo Brazzaville), Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Tunisia Where will the prize money be awarded?
united states of america
How many prizes are there?
not specified
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What are the prize benefits?
Additionally, UNDP’s Accelerated Pilot Programme for African Artificial Intelligence (AI) Startups 2024 will:
Strengthen the AI ecosystem by fostering collaboration and building partnerships among various stakeholders; Strengthen data infrastructure and improve the management and utilization of data that is critical for AI development; Enhance computing capabilities by advancing computing resources and technologies required for AI advancements; Develop the talent pipeline by supporting the growth of skilled professionals and talent in the AI field; Mitigate risks through an integrated approach that addresses potential challenges associated with AI implementation; Use AI to create transformative solutions in Africa and drive sustainable development; Support private sector integration by facilitating a unified approach among industry players to maximize the benefits of AI.
How to Apply:
In addition, applicants must submit the following documents:
A completed application form detailing your eligibility, project details and motivation for applying; a concise yet detailed company profile document (max. 2 pages) outlining your startup, mission and key team members; a PDF or PowerPoint presentation deck (max. 15 slides) conveying your AI solution, its potential impact and vision for growth
For more information, see the awards webpage
This post was last updated on July 28, 2024 at 8:04 pm