Africa Research Commercialization and University–Industry Partnership Enhancement Project (ARC-UIPEP)

ARC-UIPEP will promote collaboration among universities, research institutions, industries, government agencies, and development partners through technology transfer, intellectual property management, entrepreneurship development, innovation support, and industry-oriented research. It will facilitate joint research initiatives, strengthen knowledge and technology exchange, and support the development of sustainable pathways for research uptake and commercialization.

The project will also build the capacity of researchers, technology transfer professionals, and university–industry partnership offices to identify, protect, develop, and commercialize research outcomes. Through these activities, ARC-UIPEP seeks to increase private-sector engagement in research and development, encourage innovation-driven enterprises, and enhance the contribution of science, technology, and innovation to economic transformation, job creation, and sustainable development.

Led by the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MInT), FDRE, the initiative envisions stronger research–industry ecosystems, improved commercialization of publicly funded research, and expanded opportunities for African research institutions to participate in regional and international innovation partnerships.