The Insurance Regulatory Authority of Uganda (IRA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Uganda, has opened applications for the 2026 Insurance Innovation Challenge (IIC). Applications are open from 30 July to 24 August 2026, with full details available through the official application portal.
The call invites qualified individuals and institutions to submit applications to participate in a challenge aimed at advancing innovative insurance solutions that can expand financial protection for Uganda’s underserved populations.
The call for applications comes at a time when uptake of microinsurance among the population remains low, despite it having been introduced in Uganda over a decade ago. As a result, Ugandans are often forced to bear the full cost of emergencies — illness, crop failure, accidents and other unexpected losses.
To address this gap, the challenge is seeking innovative solutions that use technology, new business models and strategic partnerships to expand insurance coverage across the country. The competition is looking for practical ideas that make insurance easier to access and more affordable, especially for farmers, small businesses, families and other underserved communities.
Practical ideas that make insurance easier to access and more affordable — for farmers, small businesses, families and underserved communities.
Successful applicants will take part in a programme that includes mentorship, expert-led training sessions, webinars and a five-day hackathon to help refine their innovations. The best ideas could also qualify for regulatory sandbox testing before being introduced to the market.
Winning teams will receive grant funding of up to $12,300 (about UGX 45.8 million) to scale their innovation, disbursed in stages as they meet agreed milestones, along with continued technical support to help commercialize their solutions.
Submit your application through the official IRA Sandbox portal.
