Who we are

What is the AEIP?

The Africa-Europe Innovation Platform (AEIP) is a collaborative platform connecting stakeholders of the innovation value chain across Africa and Europe. It creates an inclusive and sustainable network of innovation stakeholders, ensuring all stakeholders – from policymakers to civil society – can participate and benefit equally.

Led by a diverse consortium representing all target stakeholder groups both from Africa and Europe, the AEIP strengthens cooperation by engaging with all actors of the innovation value chain on both continents. It acts as a catalyst for existing activities by increasing their visibility and outreach, while also creating new, tailored activities that respond to the specific needs of these communities.
These are implemented through a combination of virtual and in-person stakeholder meetings.

A network of networks

As it grows, the AEIP will evolve into a “network of networks” – a central hub that supports the implementation of the AU-EU Innovation Agenda. Rather than duplicating existing efforts, it connects ongoing initiatives and existing stakeholder networks, promoting coordination and enhancing their visibility.

This strategic approach improves the transparency and navigability of the ecosystem, strengthens interconnections along the innovation value chain, and supports the long-term alignment of AU and EU priorities.

Join the Platform

The platform offerings include:

The AEIP methodology is aligned with the core principle of the AU-EU Innovation Agenda: a focus on tangible impact, support for implementing institutions and programmes, and a needs-based approach that incorporates citizens’ perspectives.

Addressing key challenges

Despite significant progress in Africa-Europe R&I collaboration, key challenges remain – including fragmented efforts, limited policy coordination, and insufficient coordination between institutions, innovators, the private sector, and citizens. The AEIP addresses these challenges by facilitating participation, strengthening links, building capacity, and encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration.  It contributes vital connectivity and networking intelligence to the broader Africa-Europe innovation landscape. By integrating both digital and physical modes of interaction, it creates a dynamic environment that adds value and visibility to existing partnerships and fosters the development of new ones.

Strategic approach

The AEIP follows a structured approach to build synergies and avoid duplication. As a meta-platform, it engages both consortium members and existing networks and initiatives to scale up impact and reach. A core focus is to catalyse bottom-up innovation, bringing together stakeholders across disciplines and sectors to co-create solutions for societal challenges. The Platform adopts a human-centric approach that actively involves civil society, women, and youth.

Sustainability

The AEIP’s sustainability plan ensures that new activities and partnerships continue well beyond the project’s lifespan. By implementing lasting solutions, the goal is to animate the Africa-Europe innovation community for as long as possible.

Insights gained from the implementation of activities and stakeholder feedback will inform the long-term sustainability strategy, ensuring the platform remains relevant and adaptable over time.