| TECHgrow Innovation Challenge
About the Program
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, in collaboration with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and Strathmore University, and supported by Bosch, brings you the TECHgrow Innovation Challenge 2026: a hands-on innovation program for engineers and technical problem-solvers ready to transform ideas into working prototypes.
Focus Areas
Applicants are encouraged to submit ideas within the following areas:
Note: Subtopics are flexible. Strong ideas within these themes are encouraged.
Healthcare Technologies
- Maternal outpatient monitoring
- Disease detection and classification
- Tools to support community health workers
Environmental Sensing (Soil & Water)
- Soil characterisation and nutrient analysis
- Water quality and contamination detection
- Low-cost, portable sensing systems
Who Should Apply?
Whether you are self-taught or formally trained, TECHgrow is designed for individuals with an engineering mindset.
You should apply if you:
– Enjoy building and experimenting with technology
– Have worked with (or are interested in) hardware systems
– Like solving technical problems through hands-on work
What Will You Gain?
Design Thinking & Concept Development Retreat
An intensive, hands-on session to refine your idea and approach
Technical & Business Mentorship (3 Months)
Continuous guidance from engineers, industry experts, and business mentors
Prototype Development Funding
Up to €1,000 for selected teams
Access to Labs & Fabrication Facilities
Build, test, and iterate using available technical infrastructure
Matchmaking with Ecosystem Players
Opportunities to connect and collaborate with relevant industry actors, technical experts, and potential business partners during the program.
The TECHgrow Timeline
