Selection process

Shortlist & Mini-bootcamp

The innovators’ applications are evaluated by the Award Technical team, who thoroughly reviews all submissions (based on the selection criteria) to shortlist 15 innovations to progress to the mini-bootcamp and live pitch session. At the mini-bootcamp, the shortlisted applicants learn how to develop a convincing pitch to effectively present their innovation with business leaders’ support.

Live pitch & Winners selection

Each shortlisted applicant showcases their newly acquired pitching skills at a live pitch session in front of the Award panel of judges. The four highest-scoring applicants will enter the Award program in October 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if I’m having trouble accessing the online application form?
Please contact the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award secretariat for any issues with the online application form at: info@younginnovatorsforhealth.org

2. Can I submit supporting documents (such as a video) as part of my application?
Yes, we welcome a short video, no more than 3 minutes, to introduce yourself and your team.

3. Is it ok if some of the information I submit is confidential or proprietary to a third party?
Do not submit confidential information. Only non-confidential information should be submitted and anything you submit will be treated as non-confidential.

4. What happens with Intellectual Property? IFPMA and Speak Up Africa does not acquire any IP. Any IP creation and/or protection remains the sole responsibility of the inventors.

5. Is a patent required to apply?
No, a patent is not required to apply. However, you should not submit any information that you wish to keep confidential or that may negatively impact upon the future patentability of your invention.

6. What kind of science/technology is appropriate for the Award Program?
Any innovation that fulfills the requirements set out in the application form.

7. What is the review process?
The application will be first assessed for its eligibility before then being assessed according to the winning criteria. Fifteen applicants will then be shortlisted before progressing to a mini-bootcamp where they’ll learn how to develop a convincing pitch to present their innovation effectively to the expert jury. Each shortlisted applicant will showcase their newly acquired pitching skills at a live pitch session in front of an Award panel of judges. The four highest-scoring applicants will enter the Award program in October 2023.

8. How many winners will be selected?
This year, four winners (two male and two female) will be selected for the Award.

9. Can applications be submitted in any language?
We welcome all applicants that are representative of the geographic and linguistic diversity of Africa.

10. If I am shortlisted, do I need to travel/attend an event?
You may need to travel to attend the Award ceremony. Other opportunities may be provided to increase visibility and showcase the Award Program.

11. Will my travel and accommodation expenses be covered?
Yes, all travel and accommodation will be covered.

12. Who can I contact if I have questions about the Award Program or the application process?
Please contact the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award secretariat at: info@younginnovatorsforhealth.org

13. Where do I apply? And do I have to complete the application in one sitting?
Please apply using the application form. We suggest completing the application in one sitting. However, the online application tool allows you to save your information and return to the form to modify and/or complete it.