AfDB Call for Proposals on Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Higher Education Institutions

Innovation and entrepreneurship in African higher education are central pillars for the sustainable development of Cape Verde and the continent. The African Development Bank (AfDB) has launched a call for applications aimed at higher education institutions (HEIs) wishing to strengthen their ecosystems for entrepreneurship, knowledge transfer and links to the labour market. For Cape Verde, this is a unique opportunity to position its universities and polytechnics at the forefront of educational transformation in Africa.

The programme aims to support projects that promote the creation of university incubators, the development of digital and green skills, and closer links between academia and the private sector. Applications must present concrete solutions to local challenges, with a particular focus on youth employability and the creation of fledgling start-ups on university campuses.

Public and private higher education institutions from AfDB member countries, including those in Cape Verde, are eligible to apply. Proposals involving partnerships between different universities, research centres and businesses are welcome. The selected projects will have access to funding, technical assistance and a network of experts in academic entrepreneurship.

The selection process will assess the innovativeness of the proposal, its expected impact on academic communities and its long-term financial sustainability. Cape Verdean institutions are encouraged to prepare applications that reflect national priorities regarding economic diversification and the development of human resources.

The deadline for submitting applications is 9 November 2026. For further information and to submit your application, please visit the official link: https://www.eyecity.africa/hei-call-for-applications