As Africa accelerates its AI journey in 2026, true inclusion demands that no one is left behind, especially persons with disabilities (PWDs). The continent’s youthful population and growing tech ecosystem offer immense potential, but many promising AI solutions for accessibility remain stuck at pilot stage. Enter HAIDI the Hub for AI and Disability Inclusion, the continent’s first dedicated platform bridging this gap.
Across Africa, AI innovations with life-changing potential for PWDs often fail to scale due to inadequate technical support, insufficient user testing with disability communities, weak business models, and unclear market paths. HAIDI exists to change this narrative.
Established by a consortium including the Responsible AI Lab (KNUST-Ghana), Maseno Centre for Applied Artificial Intelligence (MCAAI), Assistive Technologies for Disability Trust (AT4D), and Next Step Foundation, HAIDI operates across three pillars: Evidence (African disability datasets), Innovation (scaling solutions), and Policy (embedding disability rights in governance).
This aligns perfectly with broader continental efforts like the African Union’s AI strategy, ensuring AI development is Africa-led, context-aware, and equitable.
The HAIDI Innovation Track: Opportunity for 2026
The HAIDI Innovation Track is now open for applications as part of the Artificial Intelligence for Development (AI4D) program, supported by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
Key Highlights
- Up to KES 5,000,000 (USD equivalent) milestone-based grant per venture equity-free
- 18-month catalytic support program
- Open to all African countries
Selected teams receive comprehensive support including:
- Technical product development, AI/UX review, accessibility auditing, and inclusive design integration
- User testing and validation with diverse disability communities via HAIDI’s Live Lab and OPD partners
- Business model strengthening, financial modeling, and go-to-market strategies
- Investment readiness, pitch support, and facilitated connections to investors, governments, and partners
- Continental visibility through convenings, demo days, and knowledge-sharing
- Longitudinal case studies for evidence-building and further fundraising.
Who Should Apply? Priority Areas and Eligibility
HAIDI targets post-MVP, market-ready AI ventures with proven traction, real users, and a strong commitment to responsible AI. PWDs must be involved in design or governance.
Priority Sectors:
- Education: AI tools for learners with diverse needs
- Employment: Disability-inclusive hiring and workplace tools
- Mental Health: Chatbots, psychosocial support, and caregiver wellbeing
- Caregiving & Independence: Assistive tech for daily living, mobility, navigation, communication
- Other Assistive Technology: Scalable AI-enabled solutions across African contexts
Eligibility Essentials:
- Legally registered and operating in Africa
- Core use of AI/ML with demonstrable impact for PWDs or caregivers
- Commitment to safeguarding, data protection, and inclusion
- Scalable with clear vision for growth
Disability-founded/led teams are viewed positively, but not required. Previous accelerator participation is welcome.
How to Apply: Practical Steps
1. Review Eligibility — Ensure your venture meets the criteria.
2. Complete the Online Form — Use the official HAIDI Inclusive AI Venture Acceleration Application Form (email submissions not accepted).
3. Submit by Deadline — 17 July 2026 (late applications not considered).
Timeline:
- Shortlist notifications: July 2026
- Interviews: August 2026
- Final cohort: September 2026
- Program start: September 2026
Applications are reviewed on impact potential, AI integration, team strength, user co-creation, scalability, and sustainability by an independent expert panel.
How to Apply
Apply Now using the HAIDI Application Form 👉 Here
Do you have any Questions or need accessibility accommodations? Contact: communication@at4d.org
Participating in HAIDI goes beyond funding, it positions your venture within a continental ecosystem. By centering PWDs as co-creators and decision-makers, these innovations can drive meaningful change in education, employment, health, and daily life while contributing to national and regional AI policies.
For entrepreneurs, researchers, developers, and organizations: This is your chance to move from pilot to scalable impact. For policymakers and communities: Support and amplify these efforts to ensure AI truly works for everyone.
Call to Action: If you’re building AI solutions that empower persons with disabilities in Africa, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply by 17 July 2026 and help define an inclusive AI future for the continent.
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