InnovAIMS

Programs and Events

Beyond building top-tier facilities for learning and innovation, InnovAIMS curates programs and events that challenge minds, foster meaningful connections, and drive real-world problem-solving, all while nurturing a  welcoming and growth-oriented atmosphere. These events include:

1. Hackathons

These are short-term, high-intensity challenges where teams work to solve real-world problems in areas such as AI, healthcare, fintech, agriculture, and climate science. Typically running from 48 hours to one week, these events bring together students, researchers, and early-stage entrepreneurs to form teams, receive mentorship, and develop functional prototypes. Each hackathon concludes with a pitch session, where top teams compete for prizes, incubation opportunities, and valuable industry connections.

2. Social Innovation Prize

An annual competition that celebrates innovative projects creating social and economic impact in African communities. Over a three-month period, finalists receive training in impact assessment, business development, and storytelling—culminating in a grand showcase where winners secure grants, media exposure, and strategic industry partnerships. The competition is open to AIMS students and alumni, as well as external social entrepreneurs.

3. GreenTech & AgriTech Accelerator

A three-to-six-month incubation program supporting startups focused on sustainability, agriculture, and renewable energy. Selected teams receive technical mentorship, access to prototyping facilities, and investor pitch preparation. The program concludes with a demo day where participants present to funders and potential partners. This accelerator is open to early-stage startups, students, and research teams working on sustainability solutions.

4. Innovation Exchange Program

A cross-border initiative that connects AIMS Ghana with the wider AIMS network and global innovation partners, facilitating joint research, startup collaborations, and international networking. Participants engage in workshops, virtual meetups, and short-term research visits, leading to co-developed projects and expanded access to new markets. This is open to students, alumni, and researchers.

5. Reverse Innovation Bootcamp 

A unique six-week program exploring how African-born innovations, such as mobile banking, low-cost healthcare, and sustainable energy solutions, can be adapted for high-income markets. The bootcamp includes case studies, expert panels, and hands-on design sprints, helping innovators refine their ideas and secure global partnerships. It is open to entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry professionals.

6. Hackathon Marathons

These are month-long hackathons designed to push the boundaries of innovation, with weekly challenges centered around transformative themes such as “Tech for Good” and “The Future of Farming.” Outstanding solutions earn exciting rewards—including tech gadgets, cash prizes, and exclusive features across AIMS Ghana’s media platforms. 

7. Pitch & Pizza Nights 

Monthly informal pitching sessions where innovators share early-stage ideas in a relaxed, supportive environment. Each session may include feedback from industry experts, networking opportunities, and the chance to win micro-grants for promising concepts. Open to anyone with an innovative idea, from students and researchers to early-stage startups. 

8. Innovation Olympics

Fun innovation games like “Fastest Prototype,” “Greenest Idea,” and “Most Social Impact.” Also includes coding hackathons, research challenges, and startup pitch battles.