This call for proposals seeks to support early-career researchers in advancing emerging areas of Artificial Intelligence through work that combines technical depth with demonstrable, real-world implementation. The grant is designed to catalyze the development of innovative ideas into functional pilots or prototypes that can be tested, refined, and shared as practical reference models. The call, therefore, aims to strengthen institutional capacity in priority AI domains while generating insights, tools, and systems that can be adopted, adapted, and built upon by students, researchers, and other institutions.
This call for proposals targets early career PhD faculty and/or researchers in the SIG in Computer Science and Information Systems (CSIS) academic area. Principal Investigators are encouraged to collaborate with colleagues from other academic disciplines where relevant.
CS/IS Research and Innovation Grant: Areas of Focus
The areas of focus for this round of funding are:

1. Agentic AI Systems for real-world impact (2 grants)
2. AIoT for decision support (2 grants)

Eligibility
This call is open to Computer Science and Information Systems (CSIS) faculty (who are full-time) at any of the KENET member institutions. The lead applicant must be a PhD holder, attained within the last 5 years, and must demonstrate active research interest. Those recently awarded grants from CSIS are not eligible to apply. Candidates who have received their PhD from Kenyan institutions may have an added advantage.
Concept Note Submission
Concept notes with all supporting documentation should be sent via email to csisgrants@kenet.or.ke  by 10th July 2026, 5.00PM EAT.
Enquiries and Applicant Support
All enquiries and requests for further information related to this call should be addressed to grantsadmin@kenet.or.ke.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE CALL OF PROPOSAL