Poster-01.jpg?width=750Do you have an innovative solution that addresses a pressing problem in Africa?

We are inviting entrepreneurs from all over the world, whose work focuses on Africa, to participate in the 2017 Innovation Fair. The Fair is an exciting part of the Oxford Africa Conference, which takes place on the 19th and 20th of May 2017, at the University of Oxford, UK. If selected, entrepreneurs will get a chance to tell a wide audience about their venture, network with other founders, explore the beautiful Oxford surroundings, and win a prize.

Selected candidates will have their flights and accommodation expenses to the University of Oxford covered to attend the conference. You will also have the opportunity to pitch your ideas to a diverse audience of conference delegates, including CEOs and politicians. Delegates will vote for their favourite venture, which will win a £2,000 cash prize.

APPLY NOW! Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until 28th February 2017!

 

What will I get from the conference?

The 7th Oxford Africa Conference is hosted by the prestigious University of Oxford, and attracted over 500 delegates last year. Past speakers have included the former President of Ghana, the Chairman of Mara Group, the CEO of RISE Networks, influential innovators, artists, and leading experts from across Africa.

Over your time here, you will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders and other innovators, attend professional development workshops, and promote your enterprise to a diverse audience that has an interest in Africa. You will also have the chance to indulge in the ‘Oxford experience’ and explore this historic and magical city.

How do I know if I qualify? Who has been invited in the past?

We are looking for early- to mid-stage ventures with a social impact focus in Africa. Your organisation does not have to operate within Africa, but must benefit the continent. Applications are welcome from entrepreneurs all over the world.

Past Innovation Fair participants have come from various sectors, ranging from education to fashion to health, including Leti Artsgifted MomSoularModestySunshine CinemaNduna GirlsAfrican Prisons ProjectChalkboard EducationPinki PartsSocial Innovation Centre for Youth.

When should I apply by?

The application deadline is 11:59pm GMT, February 28, 2017. We review applications on a rolling basis, so the faster you apply, the faster we can get back to you with a decision.

What is the application process?

Fill in the application form here. Don’t forget to send your C.V. to innovation@oxfordafricaconference.com.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so the sooner you apply, the likelier it will be that we can reply faster. The deadline to apply is February 28th, 2017.

Those through to the next round will be contacted to schedule a 30-minute interview during the first two weeks of March 2017. Expect to hear a final decision by the end of March, after which we will start your visa process immediately.

Is there an application fee?

No, there is not. We want to encourage entrepreneurs at all stages of their careers.

What costs will be covered for me?

We will pay for and book flight tickets and accommodation on your behalf. To provide this opportunity to as many entrepreneurs as possible, we will only cover the expenses of one (1) representative per venture. However, you may send additional representatives at your own expense, and we will assist you with bookings.

Each representative will receive access to both conference days and lunches during the conference. On the last day, meals and workshop fees will be provided.

You have only to cover about 50% of meals out-of-pocket and any personal expenses. Due to the high cost of the Gala Dinner, we will not be able to provide you a free ticket, but you have the opportunity to purchase a discounted ticket to attend.

I got an interview. What do I do?

Shortlisted candidates will be scheduled for a 30-minute interview with two interviewers simultaneously. You should prepare access to have an online video conferencing call. If you do not have stable WiFi, on a case-by-case basis, we will attempt to call you on the phone number provided. However, this cannot be guaranteed and Skype or another video conference platform is preferred.

What is expected of me at the conference while I am in Oxford?

The conference takes place over two days (Friday and Saturday). The first day, you will have an opportunity to make a quick pitch (3 minutes) to a wide audience. The audience will then be allowed to vote. On Day 2, you will have a table to display information about your start-up and answer questions. An award ceremony will take place at the end of the day.

However, you will be flown to Oxford for a total of 4 days, Thursday to Sunday/Monday. You can explore the city and attend the rich buffet of talks, sessions, social events, and other things that Oxford has to offer. The day after the conference will involve a couple development workshops.

We also expect that you will be a responsible representative of our conference and employ professional conduct while you are here.

Will you help me with my visa?

Applicants are required to enter their passport number in order to expedite visa matters. We will provide successful innovators and entrepreneurs with a visa letter and purchase their ticket. However, your role is to book an appointment with the British Embassy or High Commission as soon as possible to obtain your visa. A list of British Embassies and Consulates can be found here.

How do I get to Oxford?

Rest easy. If you receive an invitation, we will send you a package complete with instructions on how to get from Heathrow Airport to Oxford, where you will stay, and what your schedule is here.

Any further questions?

Do not hesitate to email us at innovation@oxfordafricaconference.com should you have any further questions.

Best of luck!

 

The Innovation Fair is generously supported by the Higherlife Foundation.

SOURCE: The 2017 Oxford Africa Conference - http://www.oxfordafricaconference.com/innovation-fair/

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