Intel Launches Second Edition of the Intel Community Reach Program to Bridge Africa’s Digital Divide and Foster AI Innovation

Following
the resounding success of its inaugural edition, Intel is pleased to announce
the launch of the second edition of the Intel Community Reach Program (ICRP)—a
transformative initiative aimed at driving digital inclusion and unlocking the
power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and broadband connectivity for
underserved communities across Africa.
With
Africa’s internet penetration at just 38%—far below the global average
of 68%—and a stark urban-rural digital divide, Intel CRP 2025 seeks for
projects that can enable population in underserved areas (and or communities)
in the member states of the African Union to have access to education including
in STEM, healthcare, agriculture, environmental services, fintech solutions, or
digital skills readiness; for financial, social and tech equity; using
Artificial Intelligence (AI) – especially at the Edge with AI PC- and/or
broadband connectivity. The program will identify impactful projects and
allow them to get our technical, capacity building, and consultancy support.
Intel
invites organizations, enterprises, startups, SMEs, and institutions that are
working towards alleviating social challenges using AI – especially at the Edge
with AI PC and/or broadband connectivity to unlock Africa’s enormous digital
landscape to apply. The program emphasizes women tech entrepreneurs,
reinforcing Intel’s commitment to inclusive digital empowerment.
Selected
participants will receive technical support, capacity-building opportunities,
and consultancy services, equipping them with the tools to scale
their solutions and drive socio-economic impact.
“At
Intel, we believe in the transformative power of AI, which is improving every
aspect of our lives across every industry. This program reaffirms Intel’s
commitment to leverage the potential of AI to drive positive change in
underserved African communities and beyond. We are excited about this
opportunity to collaborate with AfriLabs to enhance access to STEM education
and help foster innovation and advance technology for the betterment of
society,”
said Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, Director of Government Affairs
Africa and Principal Engineer, at Intel Corporation.
“The
digital transformation of Africa is not just about connectivity—it’s about
equipping people with the tools to innovate and create economic opportunities.
Through the Intel Community Reach Program, we are enabling African
entrepreneurs and innovators to harness the power of AI and broadband to drive
real impact,”
said Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director of AfriLabs.
Interested
organizations can submit their proposals [Here]. The deadline for the first round of
applications is June 13, 2025.
About
Intel
Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) is an industry leader,
creating world-changing technology that enables global progress and enriches
lives. Inspired by Moore’s Law, Intel continuously advances the design and
manufacturing of semiconductors to help address its customers’ greatest
challenges. By embedding intelligence in the cloud, network, edge, and every
kind of computing device, Intel unleashes the potential of data to transform
business and society for the better.
To
learn more about Intel’s innovations, visit newsroom.intel.com and intel.com.
About
AfriLabs
AfriLabs is a pan-African network of over 500 innovation
hubs across 53 African countries, designed to drive sustainable economic
growth across the continent through investment, innovation, technology, and
entrepreneurship.
To
learn more about the program and AfriLabs’ participation, contact Goodness
at goodness@afrilabs.com.
For
general information, visit www.afrilabs.com.
For
media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com and comms@afrilabs.com.