Deadline: September 23, 2025
The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2026 is now open for applications. Organised by the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering, the Prize stands as Africa’s largest award dedicated to engineering innovations that address real-world challenges on the continent. If you are an innovator with a scalable, socially impactful idea rooted in engineering, this could be your game-changing opportunity.
What is the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2026?
The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2026 continues the legacy of recognising and supporting the brightest minds from across sub-Saharan Africa. Launched in 2014, the Prize has successfully:
- Supported 149 businesses across the continent,
- Helped alumni raise over £39 million in funding,
- And seen 71% of participating ventures generate revenue.
This 12th edition introduces a refreshed two-stage application process, enhancing candidate selection and preparation.
What Do Winners and Finalists Receive?
The Prize offers much more than financial support:
- 💷 Up to £50,000 for the winner
- 🏅 Cash prizes for runners-up
- 🧠 8-month training programme for up to 16 shortlisted candidates
- 👨🏫 Mentorship from industry experts
- 🌍 International exposure and investor linkages
- 🗣️ Media, communication and pitch training
Even if you don’t win the top prize, the ecosystem of support makes participating immensely worthwhile.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2026, you must:
- Be based in sub-Saharan Africa
- Be developing an engineering-based innovation
- Demonstrate a clear social and/or environmental impact
- Show potential for scalability and sustainability
Applications are welcome from individuals and small teams at the early stages of their innovation journey.
Key Dates to Note
- Application Open Date: July 2025
- Application Deadline: September 23, 2025
- Finalists Announced: Late 2025
- Final Pitch and Awards: First half of 2026
How the Two-Stage Application Works
- Stage One – Initial Application:
Submit an outline of your innovation, including its problem-solving approach, scalability, and potential impact. - Stage Two – Shortlist Engagement:
16 innovators will be selected to receive mentorship and capacity building during an intensive training phase. These finalists will then pitch their innovations at the final awards ceremony.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2026 can:
- Open doors to funding and strategic partnerships
- Strengthen your business and leadership skills
- Provide global visibility and credibility
- Connect you to a thriving community of alumni and mentors
Whether you win or not, the Africa Prize gives your innovation the support it needs to grow and scale sustainably.
Apply Now
🚀 Click here to apply for the Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation
📖 Read more about the programme here
Need help with your application?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining and review.
