Open innovation and innovation intermediaries in SSA

Science Granting Councils (SGCs) are critical in strengthening innovation systems across sub-Saharan Africa. The report “Open Innovation and Innovation Intermediaries in Sub-Saharan Africa” explores how SGCs act as key intermediaries that connect governments, universities, and private companies to improve innovation outcomes. The study emphasizes the need for these councils to adapt to local realities while supporting long-term systemic transformation.

What Is the Open Innovation Report About?

This research investigates how open innovation—an approach that encourages the sharing and exchanging knowledge across sectors—can be supported in Africa through strong intermediaries. Specifically, it focuses on SGCs and their capacity to drive partnerships between public and private organisations for research and innovation (PPPs in RI).

The report draws on literature reviews, surveys, and interviews with policymakers, university staff, and innovation experts from 12 African countries. It identifies key challenges, strengths, and opportunities for improving science and technology for society and the economy.

Key Themes and Findings

Innovation Intermediaries and Their Role

Innovation intermediaries help connect different actors in the science and innovation ecosystem. This includes sharing knowledge and building partnerships to support commercial research applications. SGCs are considered crucial players in this role, especially in Africa, where innovation systems are still developing.

Understanding Open Innovation

Open innovation means that ideas and knowledge flow in and out of organizations. Instead of doing everything internally, companies and research institutions collaborate to solve problems and develop new technologies. For open innovation to succeed, intermediaries like SGCs must help manage partnerships and ensure knowledge is shared effectively.

Public-Private Partnerships in Research and Innovation

PPPs in RI are formal collaborations between governments, research institutions, and businesses. These partnerships aim to solve real-world problems by combining resources and expertise. The study finds that in sub-Saharan Africa, such alliances are still emerging but hold great potential to boost innovation and economic growth.

Challenges Facing SGCs

Despite their potential, SGCs face many obstacles. These include:

• Limited funding and weak institutional frameworks
• A lack of clear strategies to engage the private sector
• Minimal experience with intellectual property management
• Heavy reliance on donor agendas may not always align with local priorities

Many SGCs also focus on large, international firms rather than engaging with local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which comprise most of the region’s private sector.

Opportunities for Systemic Change

The report highlights a need for systemic change. This means building strong, interconnected national innovation systems beyond isolated initiatives. Key steps include:

• Strengthening SGCs’ capacities as innovation intermediaries
• Building trust between research institutions and the private sector
• Creating long-term strategies tailored to local challenges
• Encouraging more homegrown investment in research and development

In summary

The study clarifies that for sub-Saharan Africa to benefit from innovation and achieve sustainable development goals, countries must invest in institutions like Science Granting Councils. These intermediaries have the potential to bridge gaps between sectors, build local capacity, and support meaningful partnerships. However, they need the right tools, strategies, and help to fulfil this role effectively.

Why It Matters

This research offers valuable insights for policymakers, funders, and development agencies. It underlines that innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s also about people, institutions, and how they work together. African countries can better tackle social, economic, and environmental challenges by strengthening intermediaries and supporting open innovation.