science 27 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Shifts to Returnable Grants for Serious Innovators, Ends Free Funding
The Ugandan government has halted non-repayable grants to innovators, replacing them with interest-free returnable grants to ensure projects reach the market and deliver value. This policy was announced during the launch of the 2026 Science Week Hackathon, which challenges teams to develop prototypes for key national problems. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-stops-issuing-non-repayable-grants-to-innovators-5437812
The Ugandan government has ceased providing non-repayable grants to scientific innovators. Officials aim to fund only committed developers who can turn ideas into marketable products.
Speaking at the 2026 Science Week Hackathon launch on April 27 at Kabila Country Club in Kampala, Cathy Muwumuza, Superintendent Support Services at the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat, explained the shift. She noted past issues with ‘grant-premiership,’ where innovators created projects just to secure and misuse funds without market outcomes.
Now, funding comes as returnable grants without interest. Innovators must repay the amount once their products generate profit, incentivizing quality and commercialization. ‘This ensures focus on market-ready solutions,’ Muwumuza stated.
The STI Secretariat supports innovators comprehensively—from lab access and prototyping to legal and financial aid. They have backed 150 innovations, with several now selling consumable products.
The hackathon, part of National Science Week, selected 10 teams from over 250 applicants. Challenges include pothole detection, efficient construction material transport, electricity grid optimization, and disease outbreak warnings. Top three teams can win up to Shs300 million each, plus mentorship and market access. Participants must produce functional prototypes or MVPs.
‘We’re solving everyday Ugandan problems with economic impact,’ Muwumuza emphasized.
Source: Daily Monitor