FAQ – Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning in ICT

Interested in responding to the Centre’s first RFP but still have a few questions? We’ll be regularly updating the below list as we receive queries from applicants to ensure you’re clear on how to apply and what we’re expecting.

Have a question we haven’t addressed?

Email it to edtech-rfp@mastercardfdn.org and we’ll try to help, and even add your question to the list with our response.

Where can I find the first RFP and information about the application process?

Find all application and submissions requirements, including timelines, in the RFP at this link. Note – Phase A of the application process closes on 21 November 2019, so make sure to submit your Online Application Form by then.

What do you really mean by EdTech? What kind of businesses are you looking for?

When we say “EdTech”, we mean innovations or products that are technology-enabled or technology-driven and focus on improving education in some way. In our context, we’re interested in EdTech companies aiming to positively impact the African education system.

For this first RFP, we’re looking for solutions that specifically:

• Enhance and increase accessibility and affordability of professional development for in-service school teachers, which also minimise their out-of-classroom time; and/or
• Create and deliver enriched learning content that improves quality, relevance and accessibility to both in-school and out-of-school secondary school learners

Eligible EdTech companies will also meet the following criteria:

• Registered company that is now post-product with the potential to scale (typically in operations for two years or longer);
• Majority African-led and/or owned;
• A for-profit or non-for-profit operating model is in place;
• Already operating in, or interested in moving into, the education market in Africa

I see the Centre is based in Kigali, Rwanda – can my company be selected even though we’re based/operating elsewhere in Africa?

We’re looking at EdTech companies from all over the continent. If selected, there will be opportunities for you to come to Kigali throughout the support period – but you won’t be expected to move here.

When I do come to Kigali, will I have to cover all related expenses myself?

The Centre will provide living stipends and cover travel expenses (flights, accommodation, etc) to make sure your time in Kigali is not a financial burden on you or your company.

Where will selected EdTech companies get to validate their solutions?

The Centre has established partnerships with what we’re calling “anchor countries” in Africa, where you’ll some solutions will get a chance to pilot their solutions. Our anchor countries are Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia and Ghana – all of which are excited to support innovations that could improve their respective country’s education system.

What other kind of support will the Centre offer selected EdTech companies?

We’ve spoken to many African EdTech entrepreneurs to get a sense for what kind of support is most needed in the ecosystem. We’ve identified the following areas to focus on during our partnership with selected companies:

• Building relationships and increasing collaboration with the public sector (e.g. Ministries of Education across Africa) – thereby increasing the likelihood of the solutions’ sustainability and scale in Africa
• Validating your solution with the potential to pilot in school networks throughout our anchor countries – Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia and Ghana
• Business growth and development support through coaching, access to workshops and seminars, and collaboration on business plans
• Customized mentorship by experts in the areas identified as most pressing within the selected companies (e.g. technology, strategy, professional and personal development, and more)
• Financial support to assist with the operational costs associated with each solution’s scaling and expansion – the main objectives of the Centre

How long will the Centre support selected EdTech companies?

A minimum of 12 months, but possibly longer for some companies.

When would the support program at the Centre begin for selected companies?

We’ll start supporting the first selection of EdTech companies in early 2020. We plan to have selected successful applicants by 16 December, and will then work with them to determine the best start date to kick-off the program.