Socio-economic impacts of artificial intelligence in Africa

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has launched an exceptional funding opportunity focused on understanding how AI is influencing socio-economic realities across Sub-Saharan Africa. The call focuses on four thematic areas: Labour & Livelihoods; Productivity & Economic Transformation; Africa in the Global AI Ecosystem; and Poverty & Inequality. Projects funded will be part of the broader AI4D initiative, offering a platform for collaboration, learning, and impact across the continent.

 Award Amount and Duration

• Funding: Up to four grants of up to CAD 1 million.
• Duration: Projects may span up to 36 months.

 Eligibility

• Applications must be submitted by organizations registered or incorporated in African low- and middle-income countries
• Eligible applicants include universities, research institutions, think tanks, networks, civil society organizations, and private-sector entities (not individuals or government ministries)
• Consortium applications of up to five organizations are permitted, provided the lead organization is based in an eligible African LMIC

 Key Dates

• Information session/webinar: August 21, 2025, at 8 a.m. EDT. Join Here
• Submission Deadline: September 15, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. EDT.

 For more information on the call, kindly visit: Concept notes: Socio-economic impacts of artificial intelligence in Africa 

 All interested person(s) are to communicate their intention to submit an application to RID Grants Management Office at rid-grantsmgt@ug.edu.gh