Call for Edge AI Innovations in Africa

Showcasing African-led Edge AI solutions that deliver meaningful impact in resource-constrained environments

Artificial Intelligence is increasingly shaping the way we address real-world challenges. Yet, many solutions remain dependent on high-power computing and constant connectivity, limiting their reach in regions where infrastructure, affordability, and accessibility are key constraints. Edge AI and TinyML offer an alternative, bringing intelligence directly onto low-power devices that can operate offline, affordably, and close to where data is generated.

Across Africa, innovators are already exploring how these approaches can enable smarter, faster, and more sustainable solutions that work even in resource-constrained environments. Recognizing this potential, the ITU AI for Good is launching a special call for projects and initiatives built on Edge AI (including TinyML) in Africa.

Scope of solutions
We invite submissions that apply Edge AI and TinyML to tackle real-world challenges in Africa
  • Innovative and practical
    beyond proof of concept, with clear pathways to real-world use.
  • Cost-effective and accessible
    designed with affordability and scalability in mind, ensuring inclusivity across diverse communities.
  • Sustainable and efficient
    leveraging low-power inference and minimal resource requirements, reducing barriers linked to infrastructure.
  • Impact-driven
    addressing pressing issues aligned with human well-being, economic opportunity, and environmental resilience.

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Submissions are highly
encouraged in
these key sectors.

Health and well-being

Community diagnostics, preventive care tools, assistive technologies, and monitoring systems deployable in low-resource environments.

 

Education and skills

Tools that bring digital intelligence into classrooms, remote learning, or local language translation.

 

Inclusive development

Accessibility tools, local entrepreneurship enablers, and solutions that bridge digital divides

Agriculture and food systems

Smart farming, crop monitoring, pest detection, and supply chain improvements that increase food security.

 

Energy and environment

Smart energy management, low-carbon systems, sustainable resource use, and monitoring of ecosystems.

Ready to participate?
The call is open to all innovators across Africa, including startups, research teams, non-profits, and established organizations. If you have a solution at the prototype or early deployment stage with clear real-world applicability, we want to hear from you.

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Selection criteria

Powerful, self-serve product and
growth analytics to help you convert,
engage, and retain more users.

Innovation

Originality and creativity in applying Edge AI/TinyML.

 

Impact

Potential to generate meaningful social, economic, or environment benefits.

 

Sustainability

Use of low-power and cost-conscious design to ensure accessibility.

Feasibility

Technical soundness and practical deployment potential.

 

Scalability

Ability to extend beyond a single setting, ensuring broader applicability across Africa.

Outcomes
The contest will highlight African innovations at the global stage of ITU AI for Good, offering:
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Recognition and visibility for selected projects.

 

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Opportunities to connect with international experts, partners, and potential funders.

 

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A platform to scale and extend the reach of impactful Edge AI solutions from Africa.
Timeline
  • 06 October 2025
    Registration deadline
  • 10 October 2025
    Projects/Solutions submission
  • 15 October 2025
    Notifications
  • 31 October 2025
    Showcase
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