The NSF Complex Particle Systems (COMPASS) Science Technology Center and Origin Research & Innovation Labs are excited to announce the launch of HorizonShift, a pioneering initiative dedicated to transforming African industries and communities through original, local-rooted solutions and the science of complex particle systems.
HorizonShift harnesses the strengths of COMPASS’s cutting-edge materials and particle science research alongside Origin’s collaborative, entrepreneur-driven ecosystem, which links industry challenges to researchers, innovators, and startups across Africa and beyond.
By working together, HorizonShift will accelerate the development of transformative technologies for agriculture, energy, critical minerals, and health, and create new pathways for commercialization and sustainable impact.
The program’s first major focus is tackling soil acidity in Africa, a fundamental barrier to food security and economic prosperity, by developing locally manufacturable, novel particle-based soil modifiers. As the partnership grows, HorizonShift will expand into rare mineral recovery, water and air purification, and advanced health solutions, all guided by the principle of leveraging Africa’s wealth of talent, ideas, and resources.
“This partnership strengthens Africa’s leadership in technology and original solutions while creating ties to US priorities in supply chain resilience, entrepreneurship, and global scientific advancement.”
HorizonShift will support hands-on training, entrepreneurship workshops, pilot manufacturing, and active knowledge exchange, building a pipeline of innovators, skilled scientists, and business leaders.
The initiative will be guided by technical advisors and partners from Origin’s pool, including UNECA, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Alliance for Research, Innovation and
Education (AfRIE), and thought leaders in science, business, and technology and will offer access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and expertise.
About COMPASS:
COMPASS is a national leader in materials innovation and interdisciplinary research focused on the science and engineering of complex particle systems.
About Origin Research & Innovation Labs:
Origin Labs channels Africa’s brightest minds to solve industry and community challenges through indigenous-rooted research, collaborative creation, and entrepreneurial innovation, supported by institutional partners such as UNECA and Dedan Kimathi University of Technology.