The 2022 edition of Africa Earth Observation (AEO) Challenge has commenced as it seeks to drive entrepreneurial activity in the African space industry and promote awareness of the value of earth observation data across Africa.
AOE is an open innovation challenge aimed at sourcing novel space technologies in multiple sectors such as water and food security, mining, logistics, insurance, and many more.
According to the challenge, Earth observation can be defined as the gathering of information about the physical, chemical and biological systems of the planet via remote-sensing technologies. It is used to monitor changes in natural and manmade environments.
For entry criteria, Submission from businesses in any and all industries are encouraged, as long as they meet the following: The Challenge is open to businesses across the African continent, Early stage funding/angel investor ready businesses (Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 8/9 and Business Readiness Level (BRL) 1/2/3 ).
The outcomes of AOE challenge are: To identify the most promising innovators, entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses across Africa and develop them into sustainable companies, and to develop Africa’s geospatial readiness so that African businesses can service African demand for geospatial intelligence.
Here is the process for the challenges: African innovators & entrepreneurs invited to submit novel business ideas, then finalists enter 2-week business development support programme to take their companies to the next level. What follows is the Pitching Den where participants pitch to a panel of judges and other industry players. Winners receive a range of prizes. Then, all participants are empowered with ongoing support to build sustainable businesses. At the Tech Demo Day, Selected entrepreneurs pitch to a panel of VCs for investment.
There are various prizes that are up for grabs for the Challenge finalists, including: Cash Prizes, Incubation & Mentorship, Media Publicity, and Technical Support
The @AEO_challenge is an open invitation for African innovators, entrepreneurs, big thinkers and students in the space tech sector. An event for anyone involved in utilizing space data to improve the lives and land of the African continent. Enter here: https://t.co/Kz7DwAGuIL pic.twitter.com/pamsMGrNlH
— Africa Earth Observation Challenge (@AEO_challenge) August 8, 2022