Kenya launches R2C Accelerator Cohort 4 to boost commercialisation of academic research

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta

The Kenya National Innovation Agency has announced the commencement of Cohort 4 of its Research to Commercialisation (R2C) Accelerator Programme, bringing together 15 innovators selected from universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across the country.

The programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic research and market application by supporting researchers and innovators to transform their ideas into viable products, startups and enterprises.

According to the agency, the R2C initiative focuses on accelerating the transition of innovations from laboratories to the marketplace through structured capacity-building and enterprise development support.

Participants in the cohort will receive mentorship and coaching aimed at strengthening their technical and entrepreneurial capabilities, alongside support in intellectual property protection and management to safeguard their innovations.

The programme will also provide training in business formation and enterprise development, investor readiness and fundraising strategies, as well as market validation and go-to-market planning to enhance commercial viability.

In addition, participants will benefit from industry linkages and strategic partnerships intended to connect them with key players in the innovation and investment ecosystem.

The Kenya National Innovation Agency stated that the overall objective of the programme is to develop scalable innovations that can create employment opportunities, attract investment and improve livelihoods across the country.

The R2C Accelerator forms part of Kenya’s broader national innovation agenda aimed at strengthening the research-to-market pipeline and enhancing the contribution of innovation to economic growth and development.