NASENI's DELTA-2: Bridging Research to Market

Introduction to the DELTA-2 Programme

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has partnered with the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT) to launch the second phase of the DELTA-2 Programme. This initiative, a collaboration with the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TA CR), aims to transform research and development outcomes into practical solutions that address real-world problems, create employment opportunities, and drive economic growth.

Background of the DELTA-2 Initiative

DELTA-2 was first introduced in 2022, inviting Nigerian innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs to submit proposals in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. The initial call received approximately 284 applications, with 25 projects selected for funding after an extensive evaluation process. In December 2023, agreements worth $21.7 million were signed, with TA CR contributing $11.7 million and NASENI providing $10 million. These funds are intended to support projects across priority sectors, offering a platform for Nigerian innovators to develop market-ready products.

Strategic Importance of the Programme

The programme is not only a bridge between nations but also a means to connect Czech enterprises with Nigerian innovators, blending European expertise with African creativity. Officials emphasized that this partnership fosters mutual respect and opens up infinite possibilities for both countries. The DELTA-2 projects are designed to respond to current societal needs while anticipating future challenges such as climate change and digital transformation. Researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs are encouraged to seize this opportunity again.

Role of PICTT and Key Stakeholders

Dr. Dahiru Mohammed, Chairman of PICTT, highlighted the programme's role as a major driver of innovation and economic growth in Nigeria. He explained that DELTA-2 focuses on advancing applied research, industrial innovation, and experimental development through joint funding by Nigeria and the Czech Republic. The initiative aims to accelerate Nigeria's technological advancement by combining resources and expertise, encouraging the formation of consortia involving innovators, universities, and entrepreneurs.

These consortia act as engines of innovation, integrating scientific knowledge, skilled manpower, and market insights to produce commercially viable and socially impactful results. By fostering these collaborations, the programme maximizes the potential of each funded project while strengthening linkages between research and the private sector.

Alignment with National Agendas

The DELTA-2 Programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes local production of goods and services. By promoting indigenous innovation and reducing dependency on imports, the programme operationalizes this vision, creating a self-sufficient, resilient, and globally competitive Nigeria. The products unveiled from the first call—spanning agricultural equipment, mining technologies, and manufacturing solutions—demonstrate the programme’s alignment with national priorities, delivering tangible outcomes that empower farmers, miners, and SMEs while driving economic growth.

Call to Action for Stakeholders

Stakeholders are urged to take advantage of this new call for proposals. Research institutions, academic bodies, and entrepreneurial ventures are encouraged to submit ambitious yet feasible, innovative yet practical proposals aligned with national priorities. Together, they can create a legacy of innovation that transforms Nigeria's technological landscape and drives sustainable prosperity.

Priority Areas and Funding Structure

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, noted that the programme aligns strongly with the administration's development agenda. Priority areas include agriculture and food technology, renewable energy, mining and industrial development, health technologies, advanced manufacturing, digital mobility, climate technology, and defence innovations. Projects under DELTA-2 are expected to run between 12 and 36 months, with outputs ranging from patents and pilot plants to software and certified methodologies.

Eligible costs under the programme include new equipment, materials, personnel, subcontracting or consulting services, intellectual property protection, and travel required for project purposes. Beneficiaries are also required to provide matching funding, with maximum support intensity set at up to 70% of project costs.

Additional Initiatives and Impact

Beyond financial projections, the bilateral arrangement emphasizes knowledge transfer between Czech institutions and Nigerian counterparts. This includes training local engineers, developing prototypes within Nigerian facilities, and creating pathways for small businesses to adopt new technologies and scale them for domestic use.

The DELTA-2 framework has also produced spin-off initiatives, such as DELT-Her, which empowers female engineers with grants, mentorship, and technical support. In 2024, six female engineers received a total of ?70.5 million for projects aimed at solving national challenges. DELT-Her is expected to create role models who inspire a new generation of female innovators.

Conclusion

For NASENI and PICTT, the focus of the Second Call for Proposals is to build on past achievements and strengthen the link between research and the market. By bringing together government, academia, and entrepreneurs, the programme is expected to stimulate industries, create employment, and enhance Nigeria's technological competitiveness. Projects supported under DELTA-2 are anticipated to address present national needs while preparing for future challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and industrial diversification. As Nigeria continues to seek solutions to its economic and developmental challenges, DELTA-2 stands out as a cornerstone of the country's long-term sustainable development agenda.