The Harvard University Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa is a groundbreaking initiative established through the generous support of the Motsepe Foundation. Administered by Harvard’s Office of the Vice Provost for Research in collaboration with the Office of the Vice Provost for International Affairs and the Center for African Studies, this prestigious program aims to strengthen research partnerships between Harvard faculty and African scholars while advancing innovative solutions to key challenges facing the African continent.
This program embodies Harvard University’s commitment to fostering global academic collaboration and promoting research that drives social and economic progress. Through this initiative, the Motsepe Foundation and Harvard seek to empower researchers to explore transformative ideas that contribute to Africa’s sustainable development and technological advancement.
Purpose and Focus Areas
The Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa is designed to support faculty-led projects that address critical issues affecting Africa today. It emphasizes research that not only advances academic knowledge but also delivers practical and scalable solutions that have measurable impact.
The fund focuses on key thematic areas that are shaping the continent’s future, including:
- Emerging technologies and the Fourth Industrial Revolution: Exploring how digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and innovative technologies can accelerate inclusive growth.
- Climate change and sustainability: Addressing the complex effects of climate change on agriculture, water resources, health, and social systems.
- Renewable energy and infrastructure: Promoting research into clean and sustainable energy solutions that can transform communities and support economic development.
- Health and population dynamics: Examining pressing health challenges, aging populations, and the development of new healthcare materials and systems.
- Governance and entrepreneurship: Strengthening institutions, governance structures, and policy frameworks that enable innovation and equitable economic growth.
By encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, the fund seeks to foster research that integrates science, policy, and social engagement to generate long-term benefits for African societies.
Funding and Eligibility
Successful applicants can receive grants of up to USD 150,000 for the 2025–2026 cycle. Funding is open exclusively to Harvard faculty members who hold appointments with principal investigator (PI) eligibility. Faculty from all Harvard schools are encouraged to apply, including those in the arts, sciences, business, public health, and engineering.
Project teams may include Harvard postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and undergraduates as collaborators. The fund places strong emphasis on building equitable partnerships with African researchers and institutions. Therefore, preference is given to projects that:
- Clearly focus on African development priorities;
- Involve meaningful collaboration with Africa-based academics or organizations; and
- Are implemented partly or fully within the African continent.
Faculty who currently hold an active Motsepe grant are not eligible to apply during this cycle. However, previous recipients may submit new proposals once their prior projects have been successfully completed.
Application Process
The 2025–2026 application period opens on October 6, 2025, and closes on December 8, 2025. Interested applicants are required to prepare a comprehensive proposal package that includes the following components:
- A concise project summary (maximum 150 words).
- A detailed proposal of up to 1,000 words outlining the project’s objectives, significance, methodology, and anticipated outcomes. Applicants may attach up to two pages of supplementary materials, such as images, references, or data charts.
- Curriculum vitae (maximum three pages each) for the principal investigator and any co-investigators or participating students.
- A completed budget form and accompanying justification that clearly outlines how the funds will be utilized.
- A departmental endorsement confirming institutional support and salary approval, where applicable.
Letters of support or collaboration are not required and should not be submitted. Proposals will be evaluated based on their academic merit, feasibility, innovation, and potential for long-term impact in Africa.
Significance of the Program
The Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa represents more than just financial support it symbolizes a shared commitment to global problem-solving and knowledge exchange. By linking Harvard’s research excellence with Africa’s rich intellectual and developmental potential, the program aims to catalyze discoveries that can transform communities and inspire future generations of scholars.
Through initiatives like this, Harvard University and the Motsepe Foundation are laying the foundation for lasting partnerships that will drive inclusive growth, scientific advancement, and social progress across Africa. This program stands as a model for how academic institutions can leverage global collaboration to address humanity’s most urgent challenges.
