Deadline: 15 June 2018
Are you an early stage start-up based in the Somali region? Are you working at the cutting edge of innovation, or developing a tech-enabled product or service addressing a big local need? Are you passionate about your business idea? If yes, then apply for Innovate Accelerator today!
Innovate Ventures is the leading start-up accelerator and technology fund in Somaliland and Somalia. It was created to propel and accelerate technology start-ups in Somalia and Somaliland, support the next wave of Somali entrepreneurs, and grow the nascent start-up ecosystem in the country. Innovate Ventures have run coding camps, incubators and accelerators in the Somali region since 2012.
The program partners with VC4A, Telesom and Oxfam as part of Work in Progress! project. To date, the programme has graduated 25 starts-up and has invested almost $30,000 in its graduates. As part of the acceleration package, applicant will receive training, mentorship by domain experts, access to an extensive business network, visibility and a chance to get seed investment.
Benefits
- 12-week intensive training and mentoring on business and operational skills
- Access to leading telecoms and banks in the Somaliland and Somalia
- Pitching in front of local and international investors
- Features in local and international media
- Equity funding for at least 3 startups of up to $30,000.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants business is based in Somaliland or Somalia
- Applicants business is technology-oriented
- The founders are between 18-35 years old
- The founders are committed to attending the accelerator programme in Hargeisa
Application Process
- Complete the application form before the deadline to qualify for the accelerator programme. applicant will hear back from the Innovate Ventures team within four weeks whether their start-up has been selected.
- If selected, applicant will be asked to participate in their 1-week pre-accelerator bootcamp. After the bootcamp, 12 start-ups will advance to the main program. The program will take place in Hargeisa.
Finally
The program will conclude in a Demo Day, where start-ups will pitch to a room full of local and international investors and media. The top 3 start-ups will receive up to $30,000 in equity investment from the Innovate Ventures Fund.
How to Apply
Applicants can apply online via given website.
Eligible Country: Somalia
For more information, please visit 2018 Innovate Accelerator.