AI4D Innovation Scaling Challenge

The Lab for Ethics, Policy and Scaling of AI (LEPSAI), part of the African Center for Technology Studies (ACTS), invites eligible AI innovators to participate in the AI4D Innovation Scaling Challenge.

📝 About AI4D Innovation Scaling Challenge

This initiative supports AI innovations that are already deployed and in use, demonstrating significant social impact and readiness to scale. The solutions must:

• Be beyond the proof-of-concept phase.
• Be deployed under real-life conditions.
• Show readiness to scale beyond the current user base.

Note: Earlier-stage, ideation-only concepts will not be considered.

Program Overview

The Artificial Intelligence for Development (AI4D) program, supported by Canada's International Development Research Centre and the UK government's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, aims to:

• Foster safe, inclusive, and responsible AI ecosystems.
• Empower experts across Sub-Saharan Africa to develop solutions for critical development challenges.
• Mitigate AI risks through safe, rights-based, and sustainable AI applications and policies.

🎁 Benefits of AI4D Innovation Scaling Challenge

Successful candidates will receive:

• Seed funding of $100,000 USD, depending on the stage of development.
• Collaboration and technical assistance from a global network of experts to scale Responsible AI solutions.
• Networking opportunities with innovators, researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and funders.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Eligible applicants include:

• Individual researchers and innovators.
• AI startups and MSMEs/SMEs.
• Research institutions and universities engaged in AI research and development.
• Consortia comprising multiple stakeholders working collaboratively on AI solutions.

📅 Application Date and Process

Key Dates:

• Date Published: July 16, 2025
• Application Deadline: September 4, 2025

Application Process:

Applicants must fill out the template provided on the submission portal. The template includes:

1. Applicant Profile: Background information, relevant experience, and ability to develop an AI solution.
2. Project Concept Note: A concise description of the AI innovation, targeted challenges, objectives, implementation plans, and expected outcomes.
3. Initial Self-Administered Responsible AI and Scaling Assessment.

🌍 Eligible Locations

This opportunity is open to applicants from Africa.

🏢 Sponsor Organization

The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) is the sponsor of this challenge.

🔗 Additional Information

• View more details about the AI4D Innovation Scaling Challenge.
• Apply directly via the submission portal.

📌 Application Deadline

September 4, 2025

• Seed funding of $100,000 USD depending on the stage of development.
• Scaling of Responsible AI solutions (SRAIS) collaboration/technical assistance from a global network of experts.
• Networking opportunities with like-minded innovators, researchers, industry leaders, policy makers and other funders.