The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Swedish International Development Agency (Sida) invite expressions of interest from individual organizations, or consortia of organizations to express interest in applying for a grant to play the role of the Innovation Research Hub for an African-based research network on responsible artificial intelligence innovations in agriculture and food systems. The Hub will design, develop, and manage the innovation research network as key part of the Artificial intelligence for Development in Africa program (AI4D Africa).
The general objective of this innovation research network is to contribute to improving agriculture and food systems in Africa through the responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence innovations.
Note that all innovation work supported will seek to be responsible and uphold the Principles for Digital Development.
Eligibility
This call for expressions of interest is open to individual organizations based in lower- and lower-middle-income countries (LLMIC) in sub-Saharan Africa that have demonstrated expertise in artificial intelligence innovations in agriculture and food systems.
This EOI is open to individual organizations or groups of organizations that:
- Have their headquarters based in lower and lower-middle income countries in Sub-Saharan Africa with preference given for organizations in low- and medium-income countries (see Annex II for complete list).
- Have a proven record of working in Africa and supporting the design, development, and scaling of agriculture and AI innovations in these contexts.
- Internal expertise in AI and agriculture and food systems;
- Ability to work in both English and French at a minimum. Other languages a plus.
Transdisciplinary consortia are encouraged to apply. Consortia may consist of up to three (3) organizations. In case of a consortium, the expression of interest needs to provide a rationale explaining why the consortium has come together to implement this innovation research network and describe the role and added value provided by each member organization. Consortia must describe the governance and coordination arrangements they will use to produce high quality work and support fair and equitable partnerships.