Artificial intelligence innovators across Africa have a new opportunity to turn inclusive technology ideas into scalable solutions, as applications open for the Inclusive AI Innovations in Africa Programme 2026.
- Artificial intelligence innovators across Africa have a new opportunity to turn inclusive technology ideas into scalable solutions, as applications open...
- The initiative, led by the Hub for Artificial Intelligence and Disability Inclusion (HAIDI), is seeking innovators, researchers, developers, start-ups and...
- By backing innovators focused on disability inclusion, the programme seeks to ensure that technological progress benefits a wider section of...
- Organisers are particularly interested in solutions that address real-world challenges and can be expanded to serve broader populations.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on accessibility — everything you need to know is covered below.
The initiative, led by the Hub for Artificial Intelligence and Disability Inclusion (HAIDI), is seeking innovators, researchers, developers, start-ups and organisations working on responsible AI solutions that improve the lives of people with disabilities across the continent.
The programme offers catalytic support over 18 months and provides grants of up to KES 5 million to selected participants.
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Driving Disability Inclusion Through AI
The programme aims to support projects that use artificial intelligence to tackle barriers faced by persons with disabilities in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, mobility, communication and access to public services.
Organisers say Africa’s growing AI ecosystem presents an opportunity to create technologies that are accessible, ethical and responsive to local realities. By backing innovators focused on disability inclusion, the programme seeks to ensure that technological progress benefits a wider section of society.
Selected participants will receive financial support alongside mentorship, technical guidance, and opportunities to connect with experts, investors, and stakeholders in the AI sector. The initiative is expected to help promising solutions move beyond pilot stages and reach larger communities across Africa.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to innovators from across Africa, including start-ups, research teams, technology developers, social enterprises and organisations working at the intersection of AI and disability inclusion.
Projects should demonstrate the potential to create measurable impact while promoting responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence. Organisers are particularly interested in solutions that address real-world challenges and can be expanded to serve broader populations.
The programme reflects a wider push across Africa to strengthen inclusive and responsible AI development. Governments, research institutions and technology organisations are increasingly investing in policies and initiatives that encourage ethical innovation while addressing social and economic needs.
Funding and Support Package
Beyond grant funding, successful applicants will gain access to an extensive support network to accelerate growth and adoption. This includes mentorship from industry specialists, strategic guidance, technical assistance and opportunities for collaboration with partners working in AI and accessibility.
The programme’s 18-month duration provides participants with time to refine their solutions, strengthen implementation strategies and expand their reach. Organisers believe this long-term approach will help create lasting impact for communities often overlooked by emerging technologies.
Application Deadline
Interested applicants must submit their applications by 17 July 2026. The call is part of a broader effort to promote inclusive innovation and ensure that people with disabilities are represented in Africa’s rapidly evolving AI ecosystem.
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries and public services, programmes such as Inclusive AI Innovations in Africa are helping ensure that accessibility and inclusion remain at the centre of technological progress across the continent.
For more information and how to apply, click here.