The federal government has launched the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme to fund 45 consortia of startups and researchers to allow them explore further opportunities to deepen their work and build a sustainable AI ecosystem in Nigeria to support the mainstreaming of the application of Artificial Intelligence for economic prosperity.
To this end, researchers and startups working in AI are invited to apply for up to N5m (Five million Naira). This is to help build strong foundation to compliment government’s efforts to drive innovation, increase productivity in critical sectors and position Nigeria as a global centre for AI technology application.
Who Can Apply
- Start-up or technology company
- Nigerian Academic Researcher
- Foreign Researcher
Areas Of Focus
- Agriculture
- Education and Workforce
- Finance
- Governance
- Healthcare
- Utility
- Sustainability
Eligibility Criteria
- Consortium that includes a start-up or technology company, Nigerian academic researcher or a foreign researcher
- You must be equipped with a research proposal that aligns with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s AI priority areas
- Applicant must have a robust proposal stating the project and its potential impact on the Nigerian economy
- Must have a demonstrable track record of excellence in research or entrepreneurship
- Must be able to publish at least one peer-reviewed article within one year of receiving the grant
How To Apply
Interested consortiums, startups and individuals should take not of the following:
- The application opens on October 13, 2023, and ends November 15, 2023
- Applications must be submitted through the designated online channel provided below
- The proposals will be evaluated by a panel of AI experts
- Shortlisted applicants will be notified via email and invited for an interview
- Successful applicants will be notified via email
Selection Process
Grant applications will be thoroughly assessed by a panel of AI experts, and the selection criteria will include:
- Novelty and originality of the research proposal
- Track record of excellence in research or entrepreneurship of the applicant
- Alignment of the research with the Ministry’s AI priority areas
- Feasibility of the project
Application Submission link: https://airg.nitda.gov.ng/