The Innovation Agencies in Africa (IAA) Network is dedicated to strengthening the capacity and influence of national and regional innovation agencies across the continent. Many of these agencies face operational challenges, including limited funding, fragmented mandates, and a lack of technical expertise. The IAA Network addresses these issues by offering targeted capacity-building programs, technical assistance, and structured opportunities for peer learning.
Through a series of training workshops, leadership development initiatives, and strategic planning support, the Network equips agencies with the tools they need to design and implement effective innovation strategies. These programs also include guidance on commercialization, resource mobilization, and impact measurement, all of which are critical to improving innovation outcomes at the national level.
Beyond technical training, the Network also supports agencies in strengthening their governance structures and improving their ability to engage stakeholders across government, academia, industry, and civil society. This broader empowerment enables agencies to take a more proactive role in shaping national innovation policies and systems.
Ultimately, empowering innovation agencies means enabling them to act as central actors within their ecosystems. It ensures they can lead collaborative efforts, influence policy reform, and accelerate the transition from research to impactful solutions that address Africa’s most pressing challenges. The IAA Network helps agencies fulfill this role effectively, positioning them as key drivers of inclusive and sustainable development on the continent