About

About The UniPods

The University Innovation Pods (UniPods) are specialised incubators established within public universities across Africa, dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Strategically positioned within universities, UniPods leverage the extensive research capabilities, academic resources, and expertise of faculty members across diverse technical disciplines.
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These innovation pods are open to everyone, both within and outside the university community, with a viable business idea. UniPods provides a collaborative environment that combines open innovation spaces with tailored initiatives designed to support innovators, researchers, commercial partners, and business owners in developing and commercialising cutting-edge technologies.
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Whether you are a creator seeking to bring your vision to life, a researcher aiming to translate findings into impactful solutions, or a business owner pursuing transformative growth, UniPods offer the tools, guidance, and ecosystem needed to succeed in today’s dynamic innovation landscape.

UniPod Botswana

In Botswana, the UniPod has two campuses. The main UniPod is located within the University of Botswana main campus, and its satellite centre is at Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) at Palapye.

The main UniPod focuses on the following thematic areas: AgriTech, GreenTech, Clean Tech, Creative Industries, Manufacturing, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems. The satellite UniPod at BIUST focuses on TourismTech and MineTech.'

The main UniPod has specialist-equipped labs in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Electronics, Creatives, Woodwork, Fabrication, Rapid Prototyping, Computer Design,Pitch room, Exhibition room and a lounge.

Mission

"To foster a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and research excellence."

Vision

"To be a leading hub of innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa, wherecutting-edge research, technology, and creative thinking converge to drive sustainable development."

Innovation and creativity

We value the power of creative thinking and continuous innovation tosolve complex problems and drive positive changes in society.

Collaboration and partnership

We believe in the strength of interdisciplinary collaboration, fosteringstrong partnerships with academia, industry, government, andcommunities to achieve shared goals.

Sustainability and impact

We are committed to developing solutions that promote long-term sustainability and address social, environmental, and economic challenges responsibly and impactfully.

Excellence and integrity

We strive for the highest standards of excellence in everything we do,upholding integrity, transparency, and ethical practices as the foundation of our work.

Empowerment and inclusivity

We are dedicated to empowering innovators, entrepreneurs, and communities by creating an inclusive environment that supports diverse ideas, talents, and opportunities for all.

Core Values

Functions

Innovation and Tech Development

The UniPod supports the development and commercialisation of innovative technologies, with a focus on addressing societal and environmental challenges in Botswana and the region. It promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among university researchers, industry partners, andentrepreneurs to create practical solutions.

Research & knowledge transfer

The UniPod bridges academia and industry by transforming research into marketable products, supporting applied research in greentech, agritech, clean energy, creative industries, sustainability, and robotics.

Entrepreneurship and incubation

UniPod nurtures start-ups through entrepreneurial incubation, offering mentorship, training, and resources in a supportive ecosystem for innovation-driven businesses

Collaboration with government & industry

The Centre collaborates with the government, private sector, and global organizations to align innovation with sustainable development goals, driving economic growth through technology and public-private partnerships.

Capacitybuilding and skills development

UniPod empowers students, researchers, and entrepreneurs through training, workshops, and seminars, fostering innovation, product development, and business strategy for self-reliance.

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