The Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) program is an initiative from the Royal Society designed for experienced entrepreneurs and industrial scientists. This UK-based scheme aims to strengthen the links between universities and the world of industry. While it is not specifically dedicated to Africa, this type of program can inspire African entrepreneurs working in scientific and technological fields. It illustrates a structured support opportunity that combines funding with skills transfer.
The Royal Society, the organizer of this entrepreneurship competition, is a well-known British scientific institution. It has long supported innovation and applied research. This program is part of its broader initiative dedicated to science, industry, and research translation.
In this article, we present in detail the objectives, eligibility criteria, funding offered, and application process for this scheme. We also share, at the end of the article, other funding opportunities for African startups that may be of interest to entrepreneurs across the continent.
Context and Objective of the Competition
The Entrepreneur in Residence program aims to increase awareness and knowledge among UK universities of the challenges of cutting-edge industrial research. In practical terms, it allows seasoned entrepreneurs and industrial scientists to spend one day a week at a university. There, they develop a tailored project adapted to the needs of the host institution.
This scheme pursues several complementary objectives. It exposes university staff and students to the real-world scientific challenges faced by industry. It also provides expert support and guidance to foster innovation and research commercialization. Finally, it strengthens trust and understanding of entrepreneurship within academia, while offering professional recognition to award recipients.
This is therefore a two-way support opportunity: universities benefit from industrial expertise, while entrepreneurs advance their professional careers within a stimulating academic environment.
Eligibility Criteria
The program covers the full range of life sciences and physical sciences, including engineering. However, clinical medicine is explicitly excluded from the scope. Candidates must have a strong scientific or technical background to qualify for this funding opportunity.
The competition is open to candidates of any nationality, provided they are eligible to work in the UK for the duration of the award. Candidates must demonstrate significant experience in industrial scientific research. In addition, they must show at least one of the following:
- Experience managing university-industry collaborations and commercializing research
- Experience in entrepreneurship, such as founding and growing a business, or investing
- Experience in or a strong interest in training, coaching, or mentoring
Candidates may be employed full-time, part-time, or work as freelancers. This flexibility broadens access to the competition, which could serve as inspiration for startup programs across the African continent.
Prize and Funding
Entrepreneur in Residence awards run over a two-year period. The scheme is worth up to a maximum of £25,000 per year. This funding covers several essential aspects of the project.
On one hand, it funds a salary equivalent to 0.2 FTE of the recipient’s current salary, corresponding to 20% of their working time dedicated to the host university. Only the base salary is covered during the secondment; the employer continues to pay social security and pension contributions. On the other hand, the funding covers travel and project expenses, as well as accommodation if needed. Costs related to conferences, workshops, and training may also be included.
Application Deadline
Applications for this round of the program open on June 3, 2026. The closing date is set for August 19, 2026. Selection results will be communicated to candidates by November 30, 2026.
In addition, a webinar titled “Building a competitive EiR application” will be held online on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (UK time). This session is aimed at candidates looking to strengthen their application before the deadline.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Royal Society’s grant management system, Flexi-Grant. Each application is first reviewed by two members of a selection panel made up of industry and translation experts, as well as former award recipients. Scores are then verified by the Chair of the Science, Innovation and Translation Committee.
This process ensures a rigorous and impartial evaluation of applications. That is why it is recommended to prepare your application carefully, drawing in particular on the resources and webinar provided by the organizer.
👉 Submit your application here
Other Funding Opportunities for African Startups
African entrepreneurs can also explore other competitions and support programs.
📌 See all calls for projects for entrepreneurs in French
📌 Check out opportunities in English
Conclusion
The Entrepreneur in Residence program, led by the Royal Society in the UK, offers a unique opportunity to combine industrial expertise with academic knowledge transfer. Entrepreneurs and scientists interested in this type of scheme should carefully prepare their application before the deadline. Be sure to check out the resources provided by the Royal Society to maximize your chances of success.