About the opportunity
The HEI Phase II program, an initiative of the African Development Bank’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lab delivered in partnership with EyeCity Africa, is designed to transform campus talent and research into viable enterprises. The program provides African higher education institutions and research centers with the necessary models, tools, and peer networks to establish or enhance their entrepreneurship support infrastructure. It is structured into two tracks: a ‘Start’ group for institutions setting up support units for the first time, and a ‘Scale’ group for those looking to strengthen existing incubators, accelerators, or technology transfer offices. Participants receive online training, practical toolkits, and access to the ENNOVA platform, with select institutions receiving additional hands-on strategic support.
Funding and benefits
- Extensive online training modules covering governance, operations, funding, partnerships, and sustainability
- Ready-to-use frameworks and toolkits for immediate implementation
- Access to a continental peer network and the African Development Bank's ENNOVA platform
- Tailored, hands-on support for select institutions to develop innovation and entrepreneurship strategies
- Program is provided at no cost to the participating institution
Who can apply?
- Open to higher education institutions and research centers across all African countries
- Institutions at any stage of development, including those without existing incubators or hubs
- Commitment to women and youth participation
- Institutional leadership must provide a letter of commitment
- Ability to commit 12 to 16 hours of staff time over a three-week period
Required documents
- Letter of commitment from the institutional head
- Institutional details
- Information regarding the current stage of the institution's enterprise support unit
When to apply
- Applications close on 9 November 2026
How to apply
- Complete the online application form available via the official program website
- Submit the application in either English or French
Additional information
- The program is bilingual and accepts applications in both English and French
- Selection is based on merit with an aim to balance the final cohort across the continent
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for university administrators or research center leads tasked with launching or professionalizing campus-based innovation support
- Highly suitable for institutions seeking structured, peer-supported frameworks rather than just theoretical knowledge
- A strong match for teams that can dedicate a focused 12-16 hour block of time to intensive capacity building
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires explicit, high-level institutional buy-in, meaning you must secure leadership approval before applying
- The program is time-bound and requires a specific commitment of staff hours over a three-week period
- While the program is free, it is a competitive selection process, so ensure your application clearly articulates your institution's current stage and goals
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This program is an excellent vehicle for institutions aiming to formalize their role in the local innovation ecosystem. Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to scale an existing hub, the combination of practical toolkits and peer networking provides a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to build institutional capacity without financial burden.
Our take
Higher education institutions and research centers in Africa that are serious about fostering entrepreneurship should apply. It is particularly well-suited for those who need a structured roadmap and access to a continental network to accelerate their innovation strategy.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
