Apply Now | Enterprise and Innovation Challenge for Higher Education Institutions(Deadline: 26 August, 2025)

The British Council is inviting Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa to participate in an exciting new initiative – the Enterprise and Innovation Challenge. This opportunity is designed to strengthen the capabilities of universities in driving impactful innovation across three transformative sectors: Green Enterprises, Digital Enterprises, and Social Enterprises.

This challenge forms part of the British Council’s broader mission to support inclusive and sustainable development through strategic investments in higher education, professional development, research, and partnerships.

Focus Areas of the Challenge

HEIs are invited to submit proposals addressing one or more of the following core themes:

 Green Enterprises

• Focused on advancing the green economy.
• Encourages green entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices.
• Supports technological innovation in areas such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and eco-friendly manufacturing.

 Digital Enterprises

• Promotes the development of digital innovations that tackle both local and global challenges.
• Enhances community empowerment through the smart use of technology.
• Encourages solutions involving data integration, e-governance, digital learning, and smart service delivery.

 Social Enterprises

• Aims to develop entrepreneurial models that create social impact.
• Encourages projects that address critical community needs through sustainable, scalable ventures.
• Supports innovation in healthcare, education, poverty reduction, and social inclusion.

By empowering universities to lead in these three areas, the challenge seeks to foster inclusive economies, stimulate job creation, and support transformative change aligned with sustainable development goals.

 Application Deadline

All proposals must be submitted by:
 26 August 2025

For additional information or clarification, please contact:
SSAhighereducation@britishcouncil.org

 Broader Support from the British Council

Through initiatives such as the Enterprise and Innovation Challenge and the Going Global Partnerships programme, the British Council provides comprehensive support to higher education institutions. These offerings include:

 Funding, Scholarships, and Professional Development

• Access to scholarships and grants to support institutional projects and individual academic mobility.
• Tailored professional development opportunities for university staff and researchers.

 Institutional Partnerships

The British Council enables institutions to:

• Establish transnational education links and create joint teaching programmes.
• Undertake collaborative research and scientific projects.
• Develop inclusive international higher education strategies.
• Address global challenges such as gender equality, social inclusion, and climate resilience.
• Build strong ties with industry partners for practical impact and innovation.
• Expand global academic networks and establish sustainable international collaborations.

 Marketing & Outreach Support

• Promotion through targeted marketing campaigns.
• Participation in education exhibitions, fairs, conferences, and agent/alumni events.
• Tools to reach prospective students and collaborate with local providers and agents.

 Going Global Partnerships Programme

This flagship programme offers:

• Partnership grants to co-develop impactful international projects.
• Dialogue platforms to exchange best practices and develop shared strategies.
• Research opportunities to inform policy and practice across international higher education.

 Contact Information

For questions regarding the Enterprise and Innovation Challenge, reach out to:
SSAhighereducation@britishcouncil.org

For enquiries about Going Global Partnerships and partnership grants, contact:
GoingGlobalPartnerships@britishcouncil.org

You can also connect with British Council teams in your region by contacting your local British Council office.

This is an exceptional opportunity for Higher Education Institutions in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa to showcase leadership in innovation, sustainability, and social impact. By participating in the Enterprise and Innovation Challenge, institutions can secure critical funding, establish global connections, and make a lasting difference in their communities and beyond.

Don’t miss your chance to drive transformation through education and entrepreneurship.
Apply by 26 August 2025 and join a growing network of change-makers.