THINKNG is a platform designed to act as a digital intermediary in the research and development (R&D) ecosystem in Africa. Its goal is to connect local research with industry needs, facilitating the creation of specialized R&D talent pools aligned with business demands and enabling companies to access this talent sustainably and cost-effectively. Essentially, it facilitates investment in Africa-focused R&D primarily through African enterprises.

The BUILD, MATCH, and SCALE model is a structured approach to drive effective R&D engagement: BUILD: This phase is centered around developing and enhancing the skills of emerging research talent. THINKNG provides cohort-based training programs that equip researchers with practical skills and industry knowledge needed for effective R&D work. Through rigorous competency assessments, it identifies promising research talent, setting the foundation for quality R&D output. MATCH: In this phase, THINKNG acts as an intermediary to connect vetted researchers with industry-specific R&D opportunities. By understanding the unique needs of businesses, THINKNG curates projects that align with available talent. They manage the entire research lifecycle, from project initiation to execution and delivery, ensuring that research outputs meet industry standards and expectations while minimizing risks for both researchers and businesses. SCALE: Finally, THINKNG facilitates the investment of financial capital into prioritized R&D projects. By working with businesses, government entities, and research funding organizations, it channels funding toward high-impact projects. This enables organizations to scale their research initiatives effectively, fostering innovation and generating tangible economic and social benefits.

THINKNG invites a diverse range of partners across the R&D landscape, including: Private-Sector Businesses and Enterprises: Companies looking to innovate and enhance their competitiveness can partner with THINKNG to gain access to local R&D talent, leverage expertise, and manage research projects efficiently. Government and Public Institutions: These entities can work with THINKNG to advance towards national R&D targets, support local innovation ecosystems, and ensure that public-funded research aligns with industry needs. The collaboration aims to boost economic development and address societal challenges. Research Funders (RFOs): Funding organizations seeking to invest in quality research can partner with THINKNG, utilizing its network to identify validated research initiatives that align with their funding goals. This partnership can improve project outcomes and funding effectiveness. Students and Research Talent: Students seeking practical experience and researchers seeking opportunities for collaboration and funding can engage with THINKNG to build their skills, grow their networks, and gain access to industry-specific R&D projects.

THINKNG employs a multifaceted approach to ensure the quality of the research talent it connects with industry projects: Cohort-Based Development: Through structured learning programs, THINKNG transforms emerging talent into industry-ready researchers, focusing on practical skills acquisition and application. This ensures that researchers have a solid foundation to tackle real-world challenges. Comprehensive Vetting Process: Potential researchers undergo a thorough vetting process where their skills, competencies, and experience are assessed against industry requirements. This process ensures that only qualified individuals are matched with specific R&D projects. Ongoing Monitoring and Support: THINKNG closely monitors the progress of research projects, offering guidance and support to researchers throughout the project lifecycle. This coaching ensures project adherence to quality standards and promotes continuous development and improvement in research practices.

THINKNG has set ambitious goals for measurable impacts in several areas: For Businesses: The aim is to enhance R&D output and productivity, enabling companies to innovate rapidly and gain competitive advantages in their fields. THINKNG seeks to facilitate the generation of new intellectual property that can drive long-term growth and profitability. For Government & Public Institutions: THINKNG strives for meaningful advancements in national R&D capacity, aiming to effectively tackle societal challenges related to wealth and income inequality. The platform aims to create a more robust innovation ecosystem that aligns with government initiatives and drives economic development. For Research Funders: The goal is to improve the alignment of funding with high-priority research projects, increasing efficiency in funding allocation, and establishing a clear framework for measuring return on investment. By providing validated research initiatives, THINKNG enhances accountability and transparency for funders. For Students & Research Talent: THINKNG intends to foster vibrant research careers for students and emerging researchers, building their employability through skills development and practical experience. By connecting talent to impactful research projects, the initiative also contributes to broader societal progress and development objectives.
Ultimately, THINKNG's impact is centered on creating meaningful outcomes that benefit businesses, communities, and the broader African economy through strengthened R&D capabilities. THINKNG has a long-term goal of facilitating up to $1.2 billion in capital towards Africa-focused R&D by 2035. More broadly, it seeks to contribute to strengthening R&D capacity to unlock the latent potential for industrial and business innovation in Africa, which in turn will contribute to addressing the challenges of wealth, income, and social inequality on the continent.