FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
- GENERAL ENQUIRIES
- PARTNERSHIPS & AGREEMENTS
- GENERAL SUPPORT & CONTACT
- INNOVATION AND INCUBATION HUBS
- ACADEMIA-INDUSTRY LINKAGE
- INNOVATION PROGRAMMES
- UG IDEA CHALLENGE
- THESIS INNOVATION AWARD
- ARTIFY PROGRAMME
- UG INNOVATION ECLAVE
- INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY PORTAL
A. GENERAL ENQUIRIES
- What is the Innovation Unit responsible for?
The Innovation Unit is a dedicated office within the Research and Innovation Directorate (RID) that supports (students, faculty, staff) with the identification and development of ideas and research outcomes that can be translated into commercially viable businesses, products, and services. The Unit promotes entrepreneurship, venture development, mentorship, skills, trainings and capacity building as well as prototyping and commercialization. In addition, it promotes the growth of a vibrant innovation ecosystem across the University community. The Unit also facilitates equitable partnerships with industry, government, the community and not-for-profit organizations. - What activities does the Innovation Unit undertake?
The RID Innovation Unit exists to:
Advocacy, identification and training
- Harvest ideas and research outputs that address real world problems and possibly be translated into a business
- Support the growth and development of student and faculty led startups
Access to Resources
- Provide access to innovation resources, including linkages to all on campus and off-campus hubs, capacity building and training, mentorship, handholding with registration and certification and funding opportunities
- Support prototyping and product development through our Makerspace facilities and Artify Studio.
Access to partnerships and investors
- We proactively enhance the visibility of the Unit and the University's innovations, actively seek and maintain partnerships with industry, government agencies, and international bodies, and engage with partners for potential research collaborations, technology transfer, and innovation-driven funding opportunities.
- Facilitate and review industry–academia partnerships, including support for MoUs and MoAs
- Assess Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and guide innovations toward market readiness.
Who We Serve
- Who can access the Innovation Unit’s services?
Our services are available to:
- University Students
- Faculty and Staff
- Alumni Entrepreneurs
- External Stakeholders (Community, Government, Private Sector)
Programmes & Services
- What programmes does the Innovation Unit offer?
We run a variety of initiatives including but not limited to:
- Student Venture Support Programme (SVSP)
- UG Idea Challenge
- Thesis Innovation Awards
- Artify projects
- Capacity Building Training
- Makerspace digital and manual fabrication training
- How do I apply to Innovation Unit programmes?
Applications are usually announced through the University’s Public Affairs email circular Innovation Unit portal and other official communication channels. Applicants are encouraged to regularly visit the Innovation Unit webpage, follow our social media platforms, and monitor for programme updates.
- Apart from your Innovation programmes, how do I present an idea/invention to the innovation unit?
You can submit your idea/invention through the STS portal by clicking on the My Bright Idea [Submit Your Innovative Idea to RID] tab.
- How do I access the STS Portal?
You can access the STS Portal by clicking on the link below.
https://sts.ug.edu.gh/services/
- Who can use the STS Portal?
The portal is available to students, faculty, and staff of the University for submitting innovation-related ideas and projects.
- What can I do on the STS Portal?
The portal allows you to: Submit ideas or venture applications, track application progress receive, updates and feedback and a congratulatory pitch invitation letter from RID.
- Is my information secure on the STS Portal?
Yes. The portal is designed to securely manage user data and protect submitted information in line with university policies.
- How will I know the status of my application?
You can track the status of your application directly on the portal, and you may also receive updates via email notifications or a phone call.
Visibility & Accessibility
- Does the RID Innovation Unit have an official webpage?
Kindly click on the link below to visit our page below
https://rid.ug.edu.gh/services/innovation
- How can I follow the Innovation Unit on social media?
Support Services
- Can I contact the Innovation Unit for mentorship or coaching?
Yes. By emailing us through rid-innovation@ug.edu.gh or alternatively, you can request mentorship by visiting the Unit every Thursday from 9am to 3pm.
Kindly book an appointment in advance using the link below:
- Does the Innovation Unit assist with intellectual property (IP)?
No. Intellectual property (IP) support is handled by a dedicated unit within RID. The Technology Transfer, Commercialization and Intellectual Property Services Unit (TTICPs) provides expert guidance on all matters related to IP, including protection, management, and commercialization.
- Can I collaborate with the Innovation Unit if I represent an external organization?
Yes, we welcome collaborations with industry partners, NGOs, government agencies, and international institutions. Kindly send an email to rid-innovation@ug.edu.gh .
- . Where is the Innovation Unit located?
Our office is located in Block A of the Research and Innovation Office Complex building on the University campus. Click here for the location UG RID Complex
B. PARTNERSHIPS & AGREEMENTS
- Does the Innovation Unit support industry–academia collaborations?
Yes. The Innovation Unit facilitates collaboration between the University and Industry by supporting partnerships that promote innovation, research translation, and commercialization. - Can the Innovation Unit assist with MoUs and MoAs?
Yes. The Innovation Unit supports faculty and departments in the development, review, and facilitation of (MoUs) and (MoAs) with industry partners. Essentially, we focus on outward going MoUs/MoAs or those initiated through collaborations from within UG, it could be initiated by either party in the partnership, however the request for support should be led from within UG.
- What role does the Innovation Unit play in the MoU/MoA process?
The Unit provides guidance throughout the process, including initial engagement, document review, alignment with University priorities, and coordination with relevant offices to ensure proper approval and execution. We also provide the university approved MoU/MoA template.
- Who can request support for MoUs or MoAs?
Faculty members, researchers, and departments seeking to collaborate with industry or external partners can request support from the Innovation Unit.
- How do I initiate a partnership or MoU through the Innovation Unit?
You can contact the Innovation Unit directly to discuss your proposed collaboration. The team will guide you through the necessary steps and documentation required.
- What types of partnerships does the Innovation Unit support?
The Unit supports a range of partnerships, including research collaborations, product development, commercialization initiatives, training programmes, and innovation-driven projects.
- Why is it important to go through the Innovation Unit for partnerships?
Working through the Innovation Unit ensures that partnerships are well-structured, aligned with University policies, and positioned for long-term impact and sustainability. It also ensures a robust monitoring system is incorporated to track the outcomes.
C. GENERAL SUPPORT & CONTACT
- How do I reach the Innovation Unit?
You can contact us via:
- Email: rid-innovation@ug.edu.gh
- Box No.: P.O. Box LG 1142, Legon, Accra
- Office Hours: Thursdays 9am-5pm
- Booking Link: Click here
- RID Office complex
- Innovation Enclave; Opposite School of Engineering Sciences (SES)
D. INNOVATION AND INCUBATION HUBS
- Are there other innovation centres on campus?
Yes. The University of Ghana hosts several innovation-focused centres and hubs across different disciplines. These centres support research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in specialized areas. Some of these include:
Beyond the central Innovation Enclave, the Innovation Unit coordinates and supports a growing network of specialised college-based hubs. These hubs provide discipline-based platforms for research translation, technical training, product development, enterprise support, and strategic collaboration across the University.
College of Basic and Applied Sciences
- Postharvest Innovation Hub: The Postharvest Innovation Hub is a long-standing University of Ghana platform established in 2003 and based at Sinna Garden in the Department of Crop Science. The hub is dedicated to reducing postharvest losses, promoting value addition, and supporting agribusiness innovation. It trains and incubates agribusinesses and young entrepreneurs in storage, drying, quality management, and value addition; supports product development from indigenous crops into practical, market-oriented food products; and strengthens research-industry partnerships that contribute to food security, nutrition, and climate-resilient agrifood systems. See more about the hub,
- Kofi Annan Enterprise Hub for Agricultural Innovation (KAEHAI): Established in 2019 and located within the WACCI Building, KAEHAI promotes agripreneurship, youth enterprise development, and innovation across agricultural value chains. Through structured training and enterprise-focused support, the hub equips participants with the knowledge, tools, and orientation needed to identify agribusiness opportunities, build entrepreneurial capacity, and transition into startups and agricultural ventures.
- Dairy Research Improvement and Innovation Consortium (DRIInC): Established in 2016, DRIInC is a practical innovation platform within the University of Ghana that advances dairy and agrifood innovation through research, training, product development, and enterprise support. The hub supports research translation, skills development, and enterprise creation in dairy and food processing, with notable outputs including the Dairyle and GOYO yoghurt brands, a food and agro-processing training course, a mini-batch dairy processing plant at LIPREC, and strategic collaborations that support technical training, incubation, and commercialization pathways. See more about DRIInC
- Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Lab: Established in 2020, the HCI Lab is a University of Ghana innovation hub focused on digital innovation, human-centred technology, and inclusive computing solutions. The lab works at the intersection of artificial intelligence, language technologies, accessibility, and applied digital research, with key outputs including the UGSpeechData (WAXAL) project, Tɛkyerɛma Pa initiatives on inclusive communication, and collaborations that strengthen Ghana’s digital innovation ecosystem through speech technologies, local language datasets, and inclusive AI tools. See more about the lab.
- MTN Ghana Foundation Vegetable Centre of Excellence: Established in 2025, the Centre is a modern agribusiness and greenhouse training hub located at the University of Ghana Farms under the School of Agriculture. It supports practical training in vegetable production, smart irrigation, crop management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest handling. The Centre serves students, young entrepreneurs, unemployed youth, and smallholder farmers, while promoting food security, youth employment, and sustainable agriculture. See more about the hub.
- The Mosquito Lab: Established in 2023, the Mosquito Lab is an ultra-modern insectary and laboratory facility established by the Department of Animal Biology and Conservation Science in collaboration with Target Malaria Ghana. The facility supports research into the ecological effects of mosquitoes and the development of genetic technology for controlling Anopheles mosquitoes, contributing to malaria eradication efforts. It includes three insectaries, a freezer room, an imaging lab, and a processing lab. See more about the lab.
College of Health Sciences
- Health Innovation Hub (Innovation Catalyst): Established in 2024 and currently in pipeline status, the Health Innovation Hub is an emerging initiative based in the Department of Medical Microbiology at the University of Ghana Medical School. It is positioned to nurture health-focused ideas, connect research to practical application, and create visibility for innovation activities in the medical and biomedical space, with early outputs including a museum of Parasitology, a mentorship programme, and a newsletter to support scientific education and innovation visibility.
College of Education
- The Digital Youth Village (DYV): Established in 2024, it is a centre of excellence for digital entrepreneurship and youth skill development, designed as a transformative platform in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation. The DYV operates through thematic hubs including AgriTech, HealthTech, EduTech, E-commerce, and FinTech, and serves as a platform for digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and the One Million Coders Programme.
College of Humanities
- UGBS Innovation and Incubation Hub (UGBS NEST): Established in 2023, it is a dynamic hub within the University of Ghana Business School dedicated to nurturing student business ideas into viable enterprises. The hub promotes interdisciplinary engagement, entrepreneurship, commercialisation, and tech transfer. It has supported startups while building strategic partnerships with local and international innovation actors. See more about the hub.
In addition to the hubs profiled above, the University’s innovation ecosystem includes other important discipline-based hubs and spaces that continue to strengthen practical innovation, applied research, entrepreneurship, and technology development across the colleges.
E. ACADEMIA-INDUSTRY LINKAGE
- Do you have linkage with the Industry Partners?
Yes. Through the initiatives established by the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST). IAST leads incoming partnerships, or those lead or initiated by industry, in which case the request may come from an external stakeholder.
IAST focuses on:
- Promoting applied research by encouraging scientists to solve real industry problems.
- Building partnerships by connecting university researchers with industries, government agencies, and entrepreneurs.
- Technology transfer by helping innovations move from academic research into products or services.
- Training and capacity building by offering short courses and workshops for industry players, researchers and students.
F. INNOVATION PROGRAMMES
A. Student Venture Support Programme
- What is the Student Venture Support Programme (SVSP) all about?
It is venture building programme held annually to support student startups through training, pitch competitions, mentorship, and seed funding. Founded in 2022, the Student Venture Support Programme (SVSP) is an initiative of the Innovation Unit RID and delivered with both local and international innovation ecosystem builders. Partners have included, British Council, Imperial College London, Impact Hub Accra and MDF West Africa.
- Who can apply for SVSP?
SVSP is open to UG students who have innovative ideas, early-stage startups, or entrepreneurial projects they want to develop into a business. On some occasions, the programme is open to other Public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Past programmes included our sister universities from KNUST, UCC, and UDS.
- Do I need to already have a business to apply?
No. Students can apply with just an idea, a prototype, or an early-stage business.
- How do I apply for the SVSP programme?
Applications are announced via the Innovation Unit’s communication channels, the RID website, and the University of Ghana Public Affairs mailing circular. Interested students must complete an online application form and provide details about their idea or venture.
- Is SVSP open to individuals or teams?
SVSP is open only to teams, multi-disciplinary teams are particularly encouraged. Other programmes such as the Thesis Innovation Awards are open to individuals. - How many ventures are selected each year?
Up to 20 teams are selected for the programme. A limited number of ventures are selected per cohort to ensure quality support and mentorship. 10 to 12 teams are typically selected to advance to the next stage of the programme.
- What happens after I am selected?
Shortlisted applicants are invited to pitch their ideas, after which. Selected participants undergo structured masterclass sessions covering areas such as entrepreneurship, business development, intellectual property, and venture management.
- What type of training will participants receive?
Participants receive in person training in areas such as: - Pitch DNA & Practice (Story telling)
- Building Powerful Business Relationships
- Business Fundamentals
- Demystifying the fundraising process, Fundraising Action Plan
- Design Thinking
- Data & Metrics
- Lean Methodology
- Go To Market Strategies
- Introduction to Intellectual Property & Partnerships
- Acceleration and utilizing the makerspace
- Branding and building a culturally aware brand
- What happens after the masterclasses?
After completing the masterclasses, participants move into the venture refinement and pitch preparation phase. During this stage, teams further develop their ideas, strengthen their business models, and receive targeted mentorship. They also participate in structured pitch practice sessions where they present their ideas, receive feedback, and improve their delivery in preparation for the Pre Demo Day as well as the Demo Day. This is typically done virtually.
- Will I receive mentorship during the programme?
Yes. Teams are paired with mentors from academia, industry, and the startup ecosystem who guide them throughout the programme.
- Can SVSP help me develop a prototype?
Yes. Participants may have access the Innovation Unit’s Makerspace and technical support to develop or refine prototypes where applicable.
- Does SVSP provide funding?
Yes. Funding is awarded to top-performing teams (winner and 2 runner-up teams) to support the development of their ventures. The funds are strictly for business-related activities and are monitored by the Innovation Unit to ensure appropriate use. - What support is available after completing SVSP?
After completing SVSP, ventures continue to receive support through mentorship, networking opportunities, and scaling guidance. The Innovation Unit also provides letters of support, facilitates regulatory processes such as certification (i.e. with Food and Drugs Authority), and creates opportunities for exhibitions and market exposure.
- Will participants have the opportunity to pitch their business before the Demo Day showcase?
Yes. Participants go through structured pitch preparation sessions where they present their ideas, receive feedback, and refine their presentations ahead of the final showcase.
- Are there any pictures of this event?
Yes. Kindly click on the links for previous years.
15. Are there any videos of this event of this event?
Yes. Kindly click on the links for previous cohort videos.
Demo Day 2025 Cohort 2
Demo Day 2024 Cohort 1
G. UG IDEA CHALLENGE
- 1. What is the UG Idea Challenge programme about?
The programme is an initiative by the Innovation Unit RID designed to celebrate the world creativity and innovation day by empowering students, faculty, and staff to develop ideas that address real-world challenges. The day is April 21st of every year but the programme may be held on or after the day.
- Who can participate in UGIC?
The programme is open to all University of Ghana students, faculty, and staff with innovative ideas.
- What is the goal of the Idea Challenge?
The UG Idea Challenge seeks to inspire creativity and innovation by providing students with an opportunity to collaborate across disciplines and develop practical solutions to real-world challenges. Through the competition, participants strengthen their problem-solving, teamwork, and entrepreneurial skills while showcasing ideas with the potential to create positive societal impact.
- How is the Idea Challenge structured?
Facilities & Resources
The programme follows a seven-stage process:
- Advertise a call for participation
- Submit application
- Shortlisting
- Master Class
- Group Pitching
- Declaration of Winners
- Presentation of prizes and certificates
- Is the Idea Challenge a long-term programme?
No. The Idea Challenge is not a long-term programme. It is designed as a one-day event experience. However, it follows a structured process that allows participants to identify a real-world problem and pitch innovative solutions based on the specific challenge presented for the day. It is purely advocacy, capacity building and opportunity to dream and win! No strings attached.
- Do I need a fully developed idea to participate?
No. Participants do not need a fully developed idea to take part. Early-stage ideas are welcome, and the key requirement is the ability to think creatively and propose innovative solutions during the programme.
- Can I participate as part of a team?
Yes. Participants can apply individually or as part of a team, and interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged. Participant who apply as individuals will be placed in a group on the programme day.
- Will participants receive mentorship?
No. However, participants will go through an intensive masterclass session on design thinking during the event.
- Will I have the opportunity to present my idea?
No. The core purpose of the Idea Challenge is for participants to work in teams on a given problem and pitch constructive solutions developed during the event.
- How are winners selected?
Ideas are evaluated by an independent panel of judges based on criteria such as innovation, creativity, feasibility, potential impact, and alignment with the challenge theme. The highest-scoring teams are selected as winners.
Although the UG Idea Challenge is primarily an advocacy and awareness programme to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, participants with promising ideas are encouraged to engage with the Innovation Unit after the event for guidance on possible pathways for further development, mentorship, and participation in other innovation support programmes.
- Will winners receive further support?
No. The Idea Challenge is a one-day event focused on celebrating World Creativity and Innovation Day and encouraging innovative thinking. While winners receive prizes and recognition, the programme does not include structured post-event support.
- Does the idea challenge encourage collaboration?
Yes. The Idea Challenge promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across faculties and departments, enabling participants to work in teams to develop creative and practical solutions to real-world problems presented during the event.
- How can I apply for the UG Idea Challenge?
Applications are announced through an official call by the Innovation Unit and shared across its communication channels. Interested participants must submit their ideas via the designated application platform.
- Why should I participate in UG Idea Challenge?
The UG Idea Challenge offers a unique opportunity to showcase your creativity, gain practical knowledge, connect with like-minded innovators, and contribute to solving real-world challenges.
- Do you have photos of this event?
Click below to view pictures of the maiden UG Idea Challenge Event
- Do you have video of this event?
Click below to view pictures of the maiden UG Idea Challenge Event
H. THESIS INNOVATION AWARD
- What is the Thesis Innovation Award?
The Thesis Innovation Award is an initiative by the Innovation Unit that recognizes exceptional final-year dissertations, long essays, and thesis with high potential for commercialization, business development, and real-world impact. - Who is eligible to apply?
The Award is open to all University of Ghana students at the Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels who have completed or are in the process of completing their final-year projects, dissertations, or thesis.
- Are all academic disciplines eligible?
Yes. The Award is open to all discipline in the sciences, engineering, social sciences, arts, humanities, and fine arts provided the research shows strong potential for business development, commercialization, or real-world application.
- How do I apply for the Thesis Innovation Award?
Applications are announced via the Innovation Unit’s communication channels, the RID website, and the University of Ghana Public Affairs mailing circular. Interested students must complete an online application form and provide details about their idea or venture.
- What documents are required for application?
Applicants may be required to submit:
- A copy of your thesis/dissertation/long essay/project work
- An abstract or summary
- A brief description of their thesis translating into a potential business
- Supporting materials (e.g., videos, photos, prototypes, or relevant links)
- How are submissions evaluated?
Submissions are assessed based on criteria such as business potential, innovation, feasibility, impact potential, scalability, and relevance to societal or industry challenges.
- Will shortlisted applicants be required to present their work?
Yes. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present or pitch their research to a panel of evaluators.
- What do winners receive?
Winners receive recognition, awards, and may be provided with opportunities for further development of their research into practical applications.
- Why should I apply for the Thesis Innovation Award?
This programme provides a platform to showcase your research, gain recognition, and unlock opportunities to transform your academic work into a business.
- Do you have photos of this event?
Click below to view pictures of the maiden Thesis Innovation Award
2026 Thesis Innovation Awards
I. ARTIFY PROGRAMME
- What is the Artify Exhibition Programme?
The Artify Exhibition Programme is an initiative by the Innovation Unit designed to nurture student and emerging artists by developing the business and entrepreneurial side of art, enabling them to transform their creative talent into sustainable ventures.
- What is the objective of the programme?
The programme aims to equip artists with the skills, knowledge, and exposure needed to commercialize their art, build sustainable creative businesses, and engage with the broader art ecosystem.
- Who can participate in the Artify Programme?
The programme is open to both University of Ghana students and external artists with demonstrated artistic talent and commitment to their craft.
- How do I apply for the Artify Programme?
Applications are announced via the Innovation Unit’s communication channels, the RID website, and the University of Ghana Public Affairs mailing circular. Interested students must complete an online application form and provide details about their idea or venture.
- What criteria are used to select participants?
Applicants are shortlisted based on:
- Consistency in their artistic work
- Level of practice and skill
- Creative originality and potential
- What happens after selection into the programme?
Selected artists undergo a series of intensive masterclasses and practical sessions designed to strengthen both their artistic and business capabilities.
- What kind of training do participants receive?
Participants receive training in areas such as:
- Art fundamentals and creative development
- Intellectual property arts
- The business and entrepreneurship side of art
- Networking within the art industry
- Will artists create new works during the programme?
Yes. Participants are required to produce original artworks during the programme, allowing them to apply the skills and knowledge gained from the training sessions. - Are the artworks based on a specific theme?
No. Artists are given creative freedom to produce works that reflect their individual style and artistic expression. - What happens after the artworks are completed?
Participants prepare for a final exhibition where their artworks are displayed to the public and made available for sale.
- Can artists sell their works during the exhibition?
Yes. The exhibition provides a platform for artists to showcase and sell their artworks, offering real market exposure and revenue opportunities.
- What are the key benefits of participating in Artify?
Participants gain:
- Business and entrepreneurial skills in the arts
- Exposure to industry professionals and networks
- Opportunities to exhibit and sell their work
- Practical experience in building a creative career
- Is Artify only for artists?
No. While the current edition of Artify focuses on visual artists, the programme is designed to spotlight different creative disciplines over time. Future editions may feature creatives in areas such as:
- Fashion and textile design
- Photography
- Music and performing arts
- Do you have photos of this event?
Click Here to view pictures of the maiden Artify exhibition Event
J. UG INNOVATION ECLAVE
- What facilities does the Innovation Enclave provide?
Depending on availability, facilities may include:
- Launchpad/Training Room
- Workshop (Manual and Digital Fabrication)
- Arts Studios
- Who can use the Innovation Enclave Facility?
The facilities are available to students, faculty from any discipline, and staff of the University. Access may also be extended to external partners through approved programmes or collaborations.
- How can I access the Makerspace or Innovation Enclave?
Access is usually granted through participation in Innovation Unit programmes, Departmental programmes, scheduled training sessions, or through an approved request to the Innovation Unit.
Booking or sending a direct mail to rid-inovation@ug.edu.gh and cc makerspace@ug.du.gh
- What can I do at the Makerspace?
The Makerspace allows students, faculty, staff to prototype and fabricate early versions of their ideas or products using available tools and equipment, while receiving guidance from the Innovation Unit team and student technicians.
- Do I need training before using the Makerspace equipment?
Yes, and approval from the space supervisor.
- Can student startups use the facilities?
Yes. Student startups and project teams supported by the Innovation Unit are encouraged to use the facilities for product development, prototyping, and testing.
- Can final students who have projects work be assisted at the makerspace.
Yes. Final-year students can receive support for their project work at the Makerspace. They will be assisted by our student technicians and the Innovation Unit team.
- Can the launchpad or workshop space be booked for innovation-related activities?
Yes. Innovation-related meetings, training sessions, workshops, and collaborative activities can be held in the training room or workshop spaces. To secure a booking, please send a request in advance to rid-innovation@ug.edu.gh .
- Are the facilities available to external partners or organizations?
Yes. External partners may access the facilities through formal collaboration agreements, partnerships, or approved innovation programmes organized by the Innovation Unit.
- Is there a cost for using the facilities?
Most facilities are offered at highly subsidized rates for approved University programmes. Any fees are minimal and help ensure proper maintenance and continued access for all users.
- Can I access the workshop area through walk in services?
No. Direct walk-in access to the workshop is not permitted because of the sensitive nature of the equipment’s. Guided tours are scheduled on selected days, and interested participants must register in advance to join.
- Do you have photos of the Innovation Enclave and its related facilities?
Click to view pictures of the UG Innovation Enclave
K. INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY PORTAL
- What is the Innovation & Technology Portal about?
The Innovation & Technology Portal is an online platform developed by the Research and Innovation Directorate (RID) to showcase the University's innovations, technologies, research outputs, startups, and entrepreneurial ventures with commercialization potential. Please see the link below:
https://innovate.ug.edu.gh/
- Who can submit an innovation to the portal?
The Innovation & Technology Portal is primarily designed for participants who have successfully completed Innovation Unit programmes, including the Student Venture Support Programme (SVSP) and the UG Nkabom Collaborative.
- What types of innovations can be submitted?
You may submit:
- Research-based innovations
- Products and prototypes
- Software and digital solutions
- Engineering technologies
- Student startups and ventures
- Creative innovations
- Social innovations
- Innovations with commercial or societal impact
- How do I submit an innovation?
Complete the online Innovation Submission Form by providing details about your innovation, including the title, description, team members, industry sector, Technology Readiness Level (TRL), application or market utility, and supporting materials where applicable.
- What information do I need before completing the submission form?
To complete the form successfully, you should have:
- Innovation title
- Description of your innovation
- Team member information
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
- Industry sector
- Application or market potential
- Contact information
- Photos, videos, or relevant links (if available)
- Can I submit an innovation as part of a team?
Yes. Collaborative submissions are encouraged. Please include all team members involved in developing the innovation.
- Do I need a prototype before submitting my innovation?
No. A prototype is not required to submit an innovation. The portal accepts innovations at different Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), from early-stage concepts to commercialized products. As your innovation progresses and milestones such as prototype development, testing, or commercialization are achieved, the Innovation Unit will update your innovation profile to reflect its current stage. Supporting materials such as prototypes, photographs, videos, or demonstrations may be included where available.
- What is the Technology Readiness Level (TRL)?
TRL is a scale used to measure how far an innovation has progressed, from an initial concept to a fully developed and market-ready product. Indicating your innovation's TRL helps the Innovation Unit assess its stage of development.
- What happens after I submit my innovation?
Your submission is reviewed by the Innovation Unit to verify the information provided. Once approved, it will be published on the Innovation & Technology Portal for public viewing.
- Can I edit my submission after it has been submitted?
If you need to make changes after submission, please contact the Innovation Unit. Updates can be made before or after publication following the appropriate review process.
- How long does it take for my innovation to be approved?
Approval timelines vary depending on the volume of submissions and the review process. Applicants will be notified once a decision has been made.
- Why was my submission not approved?
Submissions may require revisions if the information is incomplete, inaccurate, or does not meet the portal's submission requirements. The Innovation Unit may contact you for clarification or additional information.
- Is there a cost to submit an innovation?
No. Submission of innovations to the Innovation & Technology Portal is free of charge for members of the University community.
- Who can view my innovation once it is published?
Approved innovations are displayed on the Innovation & Technology Portal and can be viewed by students, researchers, industry partners, investors, development partners, and members of the public.
- Will submitting my innovation affect my intellectual property rights?
No. Submitting your innovation to the portal does not transfer ownership of your intellectual property. If you require guidance on protecting your intellectual property, you are encouraged to contact the Technology Transfer, Commercialization & Intellectual Property Unit (TTICPS).
- Who do I contact if I need help completing the submission form?
If you require assistance, please contact the Innovation Unit by email or book an appointment during office hours. The team will be happy to guide you through the submission process.