Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa has officially announced the launch of the 2024 NextGen Space Challenge, a key initiative under the UK-Africa Space Technology for Sustainability Global Innovation Network – a collaboration platform designed to leverage space technology to address sustainability challenges across Africa.

Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering innovation and collaboration between the UK and African nations. It is part of Innovate UK, a national innovation agency in the UK, that seeks to build connections between UK businesses and researchers and African partners to drive economic development and address global challenges.

The 2024 NextGen Space Challenge aims to discover the next wave of space technology entrepreneurs across the UK, South Africa, Kenya and Rwanda, as Africa's influence in the global space industry continues to grow.

"Space technology is revolutionising industries, from environmental monitoring [to] water security and food security. Participating in this challenge offers innovators a chance to further their business ideas, learn from international stakeholders and gain access to industry opportunities.

“These move the needle to shape the future of space technology and contribute to global sustainability efforts," Innovate UK Business Connect knowledge transfer manager Alana Kruger says.

In addition to fostering entrepreneurship, the initiative seeks to deepen international collaboration in sustainable space technology.

"We are happy to support the NextGen Space Challenge as it aligns with our goal of raising the next generation of space professionals and leaders in Africa," African Space Leadership Institute CEO Etim Offiong adds.

The top five applications from each country will be selected as the finalists of the NextGen Space Challenge. The finalists will have access to a global incubation programme and be invited to pitch their idea to a global industry network. The top three pitches will win up to £1 000 in innovation awards following the pitch.

The 2023 challenge winner Micaela Davids says there is potential for growth in the space industry.

“The space industry is especially exciting right now because it’s a new market – there are no pre-existing limits or boundaries to break through. Participating in the industry now allows young space-tech entrepreneurs the chance to build a future that is in line with our sustainable development goals,” she says.

The NextGen Space Challenge is delivered by Innovate UK in partnership with the UK, South African, Kenyan and Rwandan space agencies; the African Space Leadership Institute and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The competition is open to individuals or teams of up to four members. Innovators must be aged between 21 and 35 or have graduated in the last two years.

To apply, they need to submit a three-minute video presenting an innovative idea that uses space technology to promote sustainability.

Applications are open until November 24.