Applications are open for the Africa Oxford Health Innovation Programme (AfOx-HIP) 2026, an entrepreneurship and research translation programme run by the Africa Oxford Initiative at the University of Oxford. The programme supports African innovators developing solutions to major health challenges across the continent.
Participants receive structured training, mentorship and technical collaboration opportunities with Oxford researchers, followed by an in-person fellowship stage for selected ventures.
About the AfOx Health Innovation Programme
The AfOx Health Innovation Programme helps innovators turn research and ideas into practical healthcare solutions. The programme works with entrepreneurs building technologies to prevent, diagnose and treat disease, including vaccines, diagnostics, medical devices and therapeutics.
The programme runs in two phases.
Phase 1 – Virtual Programme (16 weeks)
Up to 50 innovators join an online training covering innovation, business strategy, fundraising, pitching and product development. Participants commit 8–10 hours weekly while receiving mentorship and peer learning support.
Phase 2 – Oxford Innovation Fellowship
Selected participants attend a week-long bootcamp in Oxford and receive personalised technical guidance from Oxford collaborators to strengthen venture development and investment readiness.
Programme Benefits
- 16-week virtual innovation and entrepreneurship training
- Mentorship from researchers and industry experts
- Technical collaboration with Oxford University specialists
- Week-long Oxford bootcamp for selected fellows
- Support in fundraising, strategy and regulatory planning
Eligibility:
Applicants should:
- Be African innovators or entrepreneurs
- Be developing solutions addressing health challenges in Africa
- Have a research-based idea or early-stage venture
- Be able to participate in the virtual programme and fellowship if selected
Submit your application through the AfOx application page.
