While there are many innovative ideas for Africa, there is a level of difficulty in putting these ideas into action. That’s why the Innovation Prize for Africa – a USD $150,000 prize for innovators who deliver market-oriented solutions for African-led development was created.
To inspire creativity and help take ideas to the next level, here is the story of the IPA 2012 winner, as well as highlighting important criteria for selection. Read along, forward to others and submit your application today!
2012 Winner Profile – Unlocking the Next Gen of Cellular Tech
Professor Mohamed Sanad, an engineering professor at Cairo University in Egypt, is working on the cutting edge of mobile technology. As the winner of IPA 2012, he was awarded USD $100,000 for creating a new in-phone and mobile antennae that operates on all frequency bands.
This innovation will help people stay connected seamlessly, ensuring improved cellular access and productivity across Africa and around the world. Professor Sanad’s antennae will be the first to operate across carriers and borders. His innovation exemplifies the kind of leapfrog solutions with practical market potential that inspire the IPA team and investors.
Learn more about Professor Sanad’s innovative approach.
Factors for Success: IPA 2013 Selection Criteria
The IPA is focused on creative solutions to everyday challenges across Africa. The prize will recognize innovations in five priority areas that are critical to moving the continent forward. Successful applications will consider the following important questions:
Marketability: Does your idea have the potential for commercialization and future funding? Think long term.
Originality: Are you thinking outside of the box? Your most creative solutions that approach problems with an original solution is what is been sought after.
Scalability: Will your solution continue to be successful outside your test group? Ideas start small, but you have to think long-term and create solutions that can be implemented on a larger scale if proven successful.
Social impact: Are you addressing a community need? Provide solutions that address existing development challenges faced by a community/country or the continent as whole.
Utility/technical aspects: Are you thinking about the technical and scientific details? Show innovative uses of technology and science to solve these development issues.
You can apply here and do tell a fried too.
