The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), in collaboration with the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) and the Network of Entrepreneurial Institutions Leaders (NEIL) is implementing NEIF Phase II (2025–2026) to strengthen academia–industry linkages for research commercialisation in Kenya. This initiative addresses persistent gaps in Kenya’s innovation pipeline, including weak industry–academia collaboration, limited market uptake of research outputs, and insufficient structured pathways for commercialization. The initiative combines ecosystem-level convening with deep, institution- and industry-level pilots to accelerate translation of research into market-ready solutions.

To support delivery of this work, ACTS and KeNIA seek to engage a Lead Consultant to provide technical leadership, coordination and implementation support including the development and validation of Industry–Academia Collaboration Roadmaps and support to key innovation convenings, particularly the Commercialisation and Entrepreneurial Institutions Leaders (CEIL)  Summit 2026.

2. Scope of Services

The consultant will work under the overall supervision of KeNIA, in close collaboration with ACTS and NEIL and will be responsible for the following:

2.1 Desk and contextual research

• Undertake a detailed literature and case review of global and regional industry- university models for commercialisation.
• Identify success factors, structural enablers, barriers, and policy practices relevant to the Kenyan innovation ecosystem.
• Deliver a comprehensive context analysis report that includes evidence, trends, and actionable insights for roadmap design.

2.2 Pilot Selection Framework

• Develop transparent eligibility and evaluation criteria for selecting pilot institutions and research innovations.
• Manage the outreach, application review, and selection process for five (5) pilot institutions and five (5) innovations, ensuring diversity and relevance.
• Produce a selection report with recommendations.

2.3 Institutional Analyses

• Conduct institutional situational analyses for selected higher education institutions including interviews, document reviews, capacity assessments, and ecosystem mapping.
• Produce institution-specific analysis reports highlighting readiness, gaps, and opportunities for industry collaboration.

2.4 Industry Partner Engagement

• Map and engage with at least five (5) industry partners relevant to the pilot innovations.
• Facilitate structured engagements, reverse pitches, and co-creation scoping with industry stakeholders.
• Produce an industry partner engagement report including opportunity matrices, partnership assessments, and risk considerations.

2.5 Industry – Academia Collaboration Roadmaps

• Co-design roadmap templates reflecting phases from ideation to commercialisation.
• Host multi-stakeholder workshops to co-create validated Industry–Academia Collaboration Roadmaps.

2.6 Implementation support and partnership agreements

• Support early implementation steps, including drafting MOUs/LOIs between academic and industry partners.
• Provide advisory support on institutional processes, approval pathways and execution risks.

2.7 Monitoring learning and reflection

• Design an M&E framework tailored to the pilots with learning pauses and reflection sessions.
• Produce periodic monitoring and learning reports with lessons and adaptations.

2.8 CEIL Summit 2026 support

• Contribute to programme design, industry showcase curation, session planning and documentation.
• Prepare CEIL 2026 industry engagement briefing materials and outcome reports.

3. Required qualifications and experience

The consultant should demonstrate the following:

• Advanced degree in innovation studies, technology transfer, entrepreneurship or related fields
• At least 10 years’ experience in:
  • Research commercialisation
  • Academia–industry partnerships
  • Innovation ecosystem development
• Proven experience working with:
  • Universities and research institutions
  • Private sector and industry partners
  • Government and/or national science technology innovation agencies
• Strong facilitation, stakeholder engagement and report-writing skills
• Experience in Kenya or comparable innovation ecosystems is a strong advantage

4. Duration of the assignment

The consultancy will run from January to August 2026, aligned with the NEIF Phase II implementation period.

5. Submission requirements

Interested consultants should submit:

• Technical Proposal, including methodology, work plan, and understanding of the assignment.
• Curriculum Vitae of the lead consultant and proposed team (if any).
• Financial Proposal indicating consultant fees, taxes, and any associated costs.

Submission Deadline: 16^th January 2026
Send applications via e-mail to: CMideva@acts-net.org with a copy to f.okwara@kenia.go.ke

The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) is a leading Intergovernmental Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policy Think Tank, established in 1988. Its mandate is to strengthen the capacities of African countries and institutions to harness STI for sustainable development. It is based in Nairobi but works in twenty-five African Countries. ACTS pursues its mandate through quality STI policy research; policy engagement and outreach; technology brokerage; and capacity building. ACTS current focus is on five program areas namely: Agriculture Food Security and Nutrition; Climate Resilient Economy; Science, Technology, Innovation, Knowledge, and Society; Digital Economy; and Youth Gender and Inclusive Development.

In March 2023, ACTS acquired a 2.12-acre piece of land at Konza Technopolis where it plans to establish and leverage its Technology Scaling and Commercialization Centre. Towards this end, ACTS has developed a Master Plan that provides for an ACTS complex building consisting of four main interconnected structures (buildings) that will be developed independently. The master plan will be implemented in a phased approach.  Based on the master plan, the proposed structures on the site must meet the minimum standards provided by Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) of a smart city.

This Expression of Interest (EOI) seeks to identify competent contractors who will be invited to participate in the subsequent tender process for the proposed Phase 1 project.

2. PROJECT OVERVIEW

Project Name: ACTS Technology Transfer and Commercialization Center – Phase 1

Location: Konza Technopolis, Konza, Kenya

Client: African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)

Scope of Phase 1:

Construction of a 3,351m² block as follows:

• Basement Floor (817m²):- Shell & Core, Finishes, Water Tank & Power/Generator  Room
• Ground Floor (778m²):- Shell  and Core and Fit Out of Common Areas & Offices
• First Floor (745m²):- Shell and Core and Fit Out of Common Areas and Offices
• Second Floor (745m²):- Shell and Core only including Curtain walling
• Third and Roof Terrace Floor (266m²):- Shell & Core only including Curtain walling, Parapet Walls & Roof Waterproofing
• External civil and landscaping works
• Building services – General electrical and mechanical installations as shall be guided by the relevant schedules

3. PREQUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Interested contractors must meet the following criteria:

Mandatory Requirements:

• National Construction Authority (NCA) Registration: Minimum NCA Category 4 in Building Works.

Company Registration Documents as follows:

• Valid certificate of incorporation/registration;
• Valid tax compliance certificate (KRA); and
• Valid Business Permit from relevant authority
• CR12
• Company Profile

Resource capability

• Contractor to show proof of capacity to deliver the project including equipment and personnel

Financial Capability:

• Audited financial statements for the last three (3) years.
• Evidence of financial capacity to undertake a project of this scale.

Relevant Experience:

• At least three (3) successfully completed building projects of similar nature and value in the last five (5) years; and
• Evidence through completion certificates, reference letters, or contracts.

Key Personnel:

• CVs and professional registration of proposed project manager, site agent, quantity surveyor, and other key technical personnel.

Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Policy:

•  Company safety and environmental policy documents.
• Proof of compliance with Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA) and other relevant regulations.

Litigation History:

• Statement of any current or past litigation related to construction works.

4. SUBMISSION DETAILS

Interested and eligible contractors are invited to submit the

• A cover letter expressing interest
• Company profile
• All documentation outlined above.

Deadline for Submission: 5^th  December 2025  at 10.00am

Submission Format: Soft copies (PDF format) sent via email to: African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)

Email: procurement@acts-net.org

5. NOTES

• PLEASE NOTE THAT THOSE FIRMS THAT HAD SUBMITTED THEIR BIDS EARLIER NEED NOT RE-APPLY.
• Only shortlisted and prequalified contractors will be invited to participate in the detailed tender process.
• ACTS reserves the right to accept or reject any expression of interest without providing reasons.
• Participation in the EOI does not guarantee selection for the main tender process.

6. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS

Interested firms are requested to submit the EOI along with the specified information on 5^th December 2025 at 10.00am.

Those requiring further clarification on this project are advised to send email to procurement@acts-net.org by CoB 3^rd December 2025

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Call for Expression of Interest

The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) is a leading Intergovernmental STI policy Think Tank which was established in 1988. ACTS is based in Nairobi through a host agreement with the Kenya Government and enjoys international status. ACTS’ governing council depicts its international status. It has representation from Ghana (current chair), Ethiopia, Malawi, Cote d’Ivoire, UK, Sweden, COMESA, NEPAD and the East African Science and Technology Commission. It is mandated to support African countries and institutions to harness science, technology and innovation for sustainable development through policy research, convening policy engagements, capacity building and knowledge brokerage. Currently ACTS is pursuing its seventh strategic plan (2022-2026) in which it si pursuing the following five programmes – agriculture food security and nutrition, climate change, STI policy, digital economy and gender, youth and inclusive development. In all the five programs, there increased emphasis on commercialization and scaling up of innovations

Job Summary

The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) hereby invites qualified and experienced individuals to submit bids for the position of Clerk of Works for the construction of the proposed ACTS Scaling and Commercialization Center located in Konza Technopolis.

The Clerk of Works will serve as the Client’s on-site representative to ensure that construction works are executed in accordance with the approved architectural and engineering designs, specifications, contract documents, industry standards, and statutory requirements

Key Responsibilities

A. Quality Assurance & Compliance

1. Inspecting and supervising all construction works daily to ensure compliance with drawings, specifications, and workmanship standards.
2. Verifying that materials delivered and used on site meet specified standards and approved samples.
3. Reporting any deviations, defects, or substandard work to the Project Architect promptly.

B. Site Monitoring & Documentation

1. Maintaining detailed site diaries, inspection records, and photo logs.
2. Preparing weekly and monthly progress reports for the Client.
3. Monitoring contractor’s adherence to construction schedules and highlighting delays or risks.

C. Verification of Works & Measurements

1. Checking and confirming contractor’s measurements, work quantities, and completed milestones.
2. Assisting in the verification and certification of interim payment certificates.

D. Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance

1. Ensuring the contractor complies with all occupational health and safety laws.
2. Monitoring environmental management practices as per regulatory and project requirements.

E. Coordination & Communication

1. Attending site meetings and representing the Client’s interests.
2. Liaising with the Architect, Engineers, Quantity Surveyor, and Contractor for smooth site operations.
3. Ensuring proper implementation of instructions issued by consultants.

F. Risk & Issue Management

1. Identifying potential risks early and alerting the Client’s team.

Ensuring corrective actions for defective works are carried out satisfactorily

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

A. Academic & Professional Requirements

1. Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Building Technology, or a related field.
2. Membership in a relevant professional body is an added advantage.
3. Valid registration and practicing license where applicable.

B. Experience

1. At least 5 years of demonstrable experience as a Clerk of Works or Site Supervisor on similar-scale construction projects.
2. Proven experience in supervision of commercial, institutional, or mixed-use developments.
3. Familiarity with Kenyan building codes, standards, and regulatory requirements

C. Skills & Competencies

1. Strong understanding of construction materials, methods, and finishes.
2. Excellent communication, reporting, and documentation skills.
3. Strong integrity, attention to detail, and ability to independently oversee site operations.
4. Proficiency in project and site management software is an added advantage.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should send their applications, CV along with the names of three referees and copies of  academic certificates, professional memberships, and licenses, by Wednesday 10^th December 2025 to hr@acts-net.org  and copy to bwwekesa@gmail.com

Project Overview
The Blue Empowerment Project, implemented under the Climate Resilient Economies (CRE) Programme, is a low-carbon, gender-transformative initiative aimed at empowering fisherwomen in Kenya’s coastal region. By adopting climate-smart integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) of seaweeds and fish, the project seeks to improve livelihoods and resilience. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 on gender equality and Kenya Vision 2030.

The project’s core objectives include:

• Profiling gender-responsive challenges, potentials, and opportunities for the commercial and sustainable adoption of fish-seaweeds IMTA.
• Mapping socio-technical pathways to support enabling policies, technology uptake, and governance frameworks for IMTA adoption and fisherwomen empowerment.
• Designing, testing and optimizing gender-transformative fish-seaweeds IMTA solutions for socio-economic empowerment and climate change resilience.
• Promoting knowledge translation, dissemination and learning for IMTA systems upscaling and responding to climate change in Kwale and Kilifi counties.

The project consortium includes the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), Bahari CBO, Kenyatta University, Sea Moss Corporation, and the people of Kilifi and Kwale Counties.

Call for Editorial and Design Services
The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) seeks a skilled consultant to professionally edit, copy edit and design/layout a knowledge product on Lessons from the Blue Empowerment Project. The aim is to produce a high-quality 60-pager, publication-ready document within one month.

Scope of Work
The consultant will:

• Edit and copy edit the document for clarity, coherence, grammar, punctuation and style.
• Ensure consistent formatting, references (APA 7th edition), headings, tables, and figures.
• Design and layout the document to make it visually appealing and reader friendly.
• Develop graphic elements such as charts, tables and infographics as needed.
• Provide final publication-ready versions in editable and PDF formats.

Deliverables

• Edited and copy-edited draft (Track Changes version with comments).
• Graphic-enhanced, publication-ready version with professional layout.
• Editable source files (InDesign, or equivalent).
• Editorial and design report summarizing major revisions and recommendations.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in English, Communication, Social Sciences, Environmental Studies, Graphic Design, or related field.
• Proven experience in editing and copy-editing research-based publications.
• Strong graphic design and layout skills (InDesign, Canva, Illustrator, or equivalent).
• Excellent command of English and academic/professional formatting standards.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines and deliver high-quality outputs.

Timeline

• Total consultancy duration: 1 month
• Draft edited document: 28th December 2025
• Draft with design/layout: 6th January 2026
• Final publication-ready document: 10th January 2026

Payment

Payment for this consultancy will be made in three installments:

• 30% upon delivery of the edited and copy-edited draft (Track Changes version with comments).
• 30% upon delivery of draft graphic-enhanced version with professional layout.
• 40% upon delivery of final publication-ready document, editable source files (InDesign, or equivalent) and report summarizing major revisions and recommendations.

Application Requirements

• CV and brief proposal outlining approach.
• Samples of previous editing and design work.
• Proposed consultancy fee.

Submission Deadline: 1^st December 2025
Send applications via e-mail to: consultancy@acts-net.org with a copy to F.Makayoto@acts-net.org

The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) is a pioneering development research think tank that focuses on harnessing applications of science, technology and innovation policies for sustainable development in Africa. ACTS is an Intergovernmental organization founded in 1988 to pursue policy-oriented research towards strengthening the capacity of African countries and institutions to harness science and technology for sustainable development. ACTS envisions a sustainable economic, social and environmental future for Africa through science technology and innovation. The successful candidate will work under the Climate Resilient Economies (CRE) programme lead.

2. About The Climate Resilience Economies Programme (CRE)

The CRE programme is the climate change focused program at ACTS aiming to bring into discussions the climate change agenda in Africa including aspects of sustainability, managing future emissions, and climate justice. The programme aligns with international discourses to pursue green technology, fostering technical and financial support for climate action and offering demand driven capacity enhancement. Aligned with the Africa Agenda 2063, and various national development blueprints in Africa, the programme has a mission to provide policy choices that support the generation, uptake and harnessing of climate change-related STI for sustainable and diversified livelihoods, socio-economic development and biodiversity conservation in Africa

2.1 Purpose of this Role

ACTS aims to establish a roster of experienced resources mobilization experts, who could be engaged on short-term contracts for the preparation of proposals or concept notes, either in response to donors’ calls for proposals/expressions of interest or on an ad-hoc basis, for the programme and the Blue Empowerment SACCOs.

Consultants should have expertise in at least one of the following areas relevant to BE Project work:

Building on these, ACTS and the BE Project is seeking independent consultants to:

• Identify and target development partners/ donors/ investors.
• Design compelling and high quality proposals or concept notes in response to calls for proposal and obtain funding.
• Develop theories of change, log frames and budgets of the proposed projects.

Note that experts may specialize in more than one of the desired fields. It is therefore requested that candidates self-identify both their field(s) and tier(s) of expertise as well as their language proficiencies upon submission of their application.

3. Requirements

• Advanced University degree and/or relevant experience in one of the following fields: social sciences, gender studies, nutrition, public health, agronomy, or other related disciplines. Experience in proposal development for national and international donors is an added advantage
• At least five years of experience in grants writing, unsolicited or in response to calls for proposals from major funding agencies such as IDRC, FCDO, BMGF etc. Experience of proposal writing on health & nutrition, food security, climate change adaptation and gender-related issues is a strong asset.
• Proven ability to articulate ideas in a clear and concise style and develop log frame, theory of change and budgets for projects
• Previous experience with research institutions, United Nations Agencies, NGOs or funding agencies in project development and implementation will be an added advantage.
• At least USD 200,000 raised in resource mobilization.
• A proven track record of successful proposals submitted particularly for development programming.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Grant writing experience with other institutional donor agencies will be considered an asset

4. Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of the international research and development arena, with a focus on food/nutrition security, water security, livelihoods and/or resilience to climate change;
• Ability to research, analyze and synthesize information related to complex development issues;
• Familiarity with the requirements of key development donors;
• Team player with the skills to coordinate proposal development exercises;
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented with the ability to work under pressure.

5. Remuneration

ACTS will pay a collective graduated success fees based on contracted and paid staff costs of assignments as below:

• • Collective 3% for staff costs assignments worth upto USD 50,000
  • Collective 5% for staff costs assignments worth between USD 50,000 and USD 100,000
  • Collective 7% for staff costs assignments worth USD 100,000.

In the case that assignments are secured as part of a consortium, the graduated success fees will be based on the actual percentage of staff costs for ACTS (and individual BE SACCOs) involvement in the consortium. The collective percentages are shared among the consultants that deliver on the fundraising venture together. The share percentage among the fundraising consultant(s) – where a team is involved, will be decided on by the leading consultant in the fundraising venture, based on input provided

6. Application Procedure

Interested individuals are invited to submit their expressions of interest (Updated Curriculum Vitae, Sample of Original writing, Three reference) to Joel Onyango through j.onyango@acts-net.org and cc’ Human Resources Officer through hr@acts-net.org. We will accept and review applications on a rolling basis. Applicants should provide detailed information on their qualifications, experience, and area of expertise. Eligible consultants will be included in ACTS roster for the period of 2025 and may be contacted for submission of detailed technical and financial proposals as per ACTS and Individual SACCO requirements. ACTS consultant selection process is based on the qualifications and competence of the applicants.