Applications are now open for the 2026 Inclusive AI Innovations in Africa Programme under the Hub for Artificial Intelligence and Disability Inclusion Innovation Track, with grants of up to 5 million Kenyan shillings on offer for African innovators building AI solutions that promote disability inclusion.
The programme is seeking African innovators, researchers, startups, developers, universities and organizations building AI tools that improve access to opportunities, services and information for people with disabilities across the continent. The 18-month catalytic support programme is designed to help scale responsible AI innovations that are already beyond the minimum viable product stage and demonstrate strong potential for impact.
People with disabilities often face barriers to education, employment, healthcare, financial services and digital participation because of systems that are not designed with accessibility in mind. The HAIDI Innovation Track aims to address these challenges by supporting AI solutions developed through inclusive design approaches and in collaboration with disability communities. Selected participants will work directly with disability groups across Africa to test, validate and strengthen their innovations for real-world adoption.
Organizers said AI has the potential to transform lives by making services, information, education and employment more accessible. But if AI systems are not intentionally designed for inclusion, they can reinforce existing inequalities and exclude vulnerable populations. The programme encourages innovators to build AI solutions that address real accessibility challenges while ensuring people with disabilities actively participate in the design and testing process. For startups, researchers and innovators working at the intersection of AI, accessibility and social impact, the programme offers funding, technical support and a pathway to scale.
Applications are open to AI startups and small and medium-sized enterprises, individual innovators and researchers, research institutions and universities, and multi-stakeholder partnerships and consortia. Applicants should have AI solutions that are already in use and ready for scaling.
Selected participants will receive grants of up to 5 million Kenyan shillings, or the equivalent in U.S. dollars, alongside hands-on technical and product development support, scaling and growth support, user testing and validation with disability communities across Africa, access to expert networks and strategic partnerships, and opportunities for future funding and investment connections.
Applications can be submitted through the Inclusive AI Innovations in Africa Programme portal at https://www.ai4d.ai/calls/inclusive-ai-innovations-in-africa
