How do we fund?
Africa's research landscape faces significant challenges in securing adequate resources. According to the World Economic Forum (2017), Africa receives just 1% of global R&D investment and holds only 0.1% of the world's patents , stark figures that highlight the urgent need for increased investment in African research. Years later, progress remains slow compared to the rest of the world. Public data shows only 198 academic researchers per million inhabitants in Africa, but this tells only part of the story, excluding the vital contributions of non-academic researchers driving innovation on the ground. Our market analysis also reveals a critical challenge: the dependency on external funding. African governments' investment in scientific research, particularly in technology innovation, remains minimal.
Our Research Funding Model
At Afrokwary, we're pioneering a different approach to funding local research through two key strategies:Co-design practical solutions
- Private Sector Engagement: We connect organizations with researchers who can deliver both immediate and long-term value through targeted research projects. This creates a sustainable model where research directly benefits African businesses while advancing continental innovation.
- Diversified Funding Sources: We facilitate access to grants from private entities, local governments, and international organizations committed to supporting African research.
Our mission extends beyond just connecting researchers and funding – we're working to transform how African organizations view research investment. By demonstrating the tangible benefits of local R&D, we aim to catalyze a shift toward greater domestic investment in African research and innovation.