Looking at Africa’s Challenges
Through a Different Lens
From early exposure to investor readiness, AEOC builds the pipeline powering Africa’s next generation of SpaceTech innovators.
AFRICA EARTH OBSERVATION CHALLENGE
10+
Years of impact
300+
Startups supported
20+
African countries reached
38+
Ecosystem partners
A platform for African innovators building solutions that improve lives
Since 2016, the Africa Earth Observation Challenge (AEOC), managed by RIIS, has grown from a local innovation challenge into Africa’s flagship platform for Earth Observation entrepreneurship.
What began as a single competition is now a pan-African ecosystem; connecting innovators, governments, industry, and partners to turn data into impact.
For more than 10 years, AEOC has worked with 300+ startups across 20+ African countries, supporting innovators as they develop ideas, build ventures and connect with the opportunities, partners and networks needed to grow.
We have built a network of 38+ ecosystem partners that are committed to strengthening Africa’s Earth observation innovation ecosystem.
AEOC is no longer just a competition.
It is a structured, continent-wide innovation pipeline that is designed to support African talent from early curiosity to investor-ready ventures.
OUR PARTNERSHIP ─────────
Strengthening Africa–Europe collaboration in Earth Observation
In partnership with the Africa–Europe Space Partnership Programme (AESPP) and the European Space Agency (ESA), AEOC is building a stronger, more connected space innovation ecosystem across Africa.
One platform. Multiple entry points.
AEOC is designed for different entry points — whether you're just starting out or ready to scale.
01 Students & Young Innovators
Explore. Learn. Build.
Discover opportunities to explore Earth observation.
02 Startups & Innovators
Grow. Scale. Connect.
Access support, networks and opportunities to grow your venture.
03 Partners
Invest. Collaborate. Amplify.
Help connect talent, expertise and opportunity across Africa.
THE NEXT CHAPTER ─────────
The next generation of African innovation starts here.
Whether you’re building an idea, growing a venture, or looking to strengthen the ecosystem around African innovators, there is a place for you in AEOC.