Programmes
Programmes & projects
Everything RIO Center runs, grouped by the pillar it belongs to.
- All programmes
- Research
- Innovation
- Entrepreneurship
- Training & Capacity Development
- Community Outreach
- Annual Flagship Programme
12 programmes
- Research
RIO Research Clinic
Professional research guidance, one appointment at a time
A booking-based advisory service for students, lecturers, researchers, and professionals who need expert guidance at any stage of a research project.
Ongoing - Innovation
RIO Innovation Challenge
Turn a community problem into a funded solution
An annual competition inviting young innovators to propose and prototype solutions to pressing Somali challenges.
Ongoing - Entrepreneurship
Start Your Business Program
Building job creators, not only job seekers
A structured programme guiding first-time entrepreneurs from idea to launched business.
Ongoing - Annual Flagship Programme
RIO Research Conference
Somalia's applied research gathering
An annual conference where researchers, academics, institutions, and practitioners present findings and recommendations on Somalia's development.
Runs annually - Community Outreach
RIO Student Ambassadors Program
Represent RIO Center on your campus
Students who promote RIO Center opportunities, mobilise their peers, support events, and build leadership experience.
Ongoing - Community Outreach
Internship and Volunteer Program
Practical experience on real projects
Placements for students, recent graduates, researchers, and professionals across research, communications, innovation, and operations.
Ongoing - Research
Government Policy and Research Dialogue
Connecting evidence to public decision-making
A professional platform bringing together government leaders, researchers, universities, experts, and development professionals.
Ongoing - Innovation
Women in Innovation
Expanding who gets to build the future
A programme supporting women innovators and entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and networks.
Ongoing - Community Outreach
Community Digital Literacy
Knowledge should not stay inside classrooms
Free digital literacy training delivered to communities, schools, and underserved groups.
Ongoing - Annual Flagship Programme
RIO Innovation Week
Seven days of building
A week-long programme of exhibitions, hackathons, idea competitions, technology demonstrations, startup pitching, and expert discussions.
Runs annually - Annual Flagship Programme
RIO Demo Day
Where ideas meet partners and investors
A platform for innovators and startups to present products, services, and business solutions to partners, clients, and investors.
Runs annually - Annual Flagship Programme
RIO Youth Skills Forum
Future skills, employment readiness, and networks
A programme equipping young people with future skills, entrepreneurship knowledge, employment readiness, leadership abilities, and professional networks.
Runs annually