The iGrid project deals with the design and implementation of a solar-powered smart microgrid to supply electric power to small rural communities. In this paper, we discuss the roadmap of the iGrid project, which forms by merging the roadmaps of KIC (knowledge and Innovation Community) and CDE (Challenge-Driven Education). We introduce and explain a five-gear chain as Challenge, Education, Research, Innovation, and Deployment, called CERID, to reach the main goals of this project. We investigate the full chain in the iGrid project, which is established between KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden) and University of Dar es Salam (Tanzania). We introduce the key stakeholders and explain how CERID goals can be accomplished in higher educations and through scientific research. Challenges are discussed, some innovative ideas are introduced and deployment solutions are recommended.