Apply for the Kenya Artificial Intelligence Accelerator Programme 2026 - a national open call for high-impact AI use cases led by the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (MICDE), the Technopolis Development Authority (TDA), and UNDP Kenya.
The programme identifies and supports safe, responsible AI solutions that strengthen public-service delivery and advance Kenya’s green transition, with stage-appropriate access to compute, data preparation, technical assistance, and responsible AI guidance.
Quick Facts - Kenya AI Accelerator Programme 2026
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Kenya Artificial Intelligence Accelerator Programme - Open Call for High-Impact AI Use Cases |
| Partners | MICDE, Technopolis Development Authority (TDA), UNDP Kenya (with support from partners such as timbuktoo / RCC) |
| Country | Kenya |
| Application window | 24 August - 6 September 2026 |
| Deadline | 6 September 2026, 23:59 EAT |
| Eligible applicants | Public institutions, universities & R&D entities, startups and innovators (Kenya-based) |
| Pathways | Public-Service Delivery AI · GreenTech & Environmental AI |
| Support | AI compute, data preparation, technical assistance, responsible AI guidance |
| Apply | ai.konza.go.ke |
Innovation Pathways
1. Public-Service Delivery AI
AI applications that improve the efficiency, accessibility, and quality of public services in Kenya.
- Eligible: Kenyan public institutions, universities & research institutions, startups & innovators
- Example areas: government services, healthcare, education, agriculture, public administration, citizen services
2. GreenTech & Environmental AI
AI innovations that contribute to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
- Eligible: Startups & innovators, universities & research institutions
- Example areas: environmental monitoring, climate adaptation, biodiversity, renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture
Programme Support
- AI compute resources for model development and experimentation
- Data preparation support to improve data quality and readiness
- Technical assistance from AI specialists and ecosystem partners
- Responsible AI guidance for safe, ethical, and trustworthy solutions
Support is stage-appropriate - tailored to early-stage and more advanced teams.
Eligibility (General)
- Be legally established or formally recognized in Kenya
- Submit a clearly defined problem / use case under one pathway
- Identify intended users, customers, or beneficiaries and explain why AI is appropriate
- Describe expected public, environmental, social, or economic value
- Describe available data or a credible data-access and preparation plan
- Identify a responsible focal point and team
- Participate in assessment, technical assistance, monitoring, and responsible AI reviews
- Comply with applicable Kenyan legal, regulatory, licensing, data-protection, and IP requirements
How to Apply
- Read the official guidelines on ai.konza.go.ke.
- Choose the pathway that best fits your use case (Public-Service Delivery AI or GreenTech & Environmental AI).
- Prepare a clear description of your AI use case, impact, data plan, and team.
- Submit via the official portal before 6 September 2026 at 23:59 EAT.
Official Links
Apply - Kenya Artificial Intelligence Accelerator Programme
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FAQs - Kenya AI Accelerator Programme 2026
What is the deadline?
6 September 2026 at 23:59 East Africa Time (EAT). The application window opened 24 August 2026.
Who can apply?
Kenya-based public institutions, universities and R&D entities, startups, and innovators (eligibility varies slightly by pathway).
Is it a cash grant?
The programme emphasises stage-appropriate technical support - AI compute, data preparation, technical assistance, and responsible AI guidance - rather than only direct funding. Confirm current benefits on the official portal.
What are the two pathways?
Public-Service Delivery AI and GreenTech & Environmental AI.
Where do I apply?
Only through the official site: https://ai.konza.go.ke/.
