Call for UNDP National Innovations Initiative 2021. The United Nation Development Programme (UNDP)’s Accelerator Lab, National Technology Business Centre (NTBC) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is calling for applications for the 2021 National Innovation Initiative. The National Innovation Initiative being held in collaboration with the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA) and the Patents and Companies Registrations Agency (PACRA) is looking for innovations with the highest potential impact.

Summary

The National Innovation Initiative is aimed at supporting local innovators with functioning prototypes. Applicants will have an opportunity of showcasing their innovations at the National Innovation Fair to be held in Lusaka on 4th and 5th November 2021. Desired innovations should be responsive to the Sustainable Development Goals, technology based, creative and have potential to create a positive impact in society. The application is open to registered businesses and individuals. Women, Youth and people living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• UNDP National Innovations Initiative will facilitate the attainment of the start-up’s next milestone, recognise, and award the best innovations in the various categories particularly those addressing Health, Agriculture, Education, Tourism, Climate Change and Energy.
• The Innovation Fair will also serve as an opportunity to match innovators to investors that can fund their innovations. Applicants must also be willing to participate in a business development programme.
• The 20 shortlisted applicants during the Fair will be expected to commit to participating in a Business Acceleration programme lasting up to 6 weeks; from which top performing innovations, will receive monetary awards.

Eligibility

The application will be opened to participants assessed according to the following:

• Zambians with undue advantage to youths between the age of 18 – 35, women/girls and people living with disabilities.
• The innovative business or idea must be implemented in in the locality where the innovator is based.
• The applicant individual/company must be willing to be matched to business development and mentorship programme, focused on enhancing their skills.
• The applicant individual/company must demonstrate willingness to participate in the Business Acceleration programme.

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