Deadline: 15-Jan-2026
The YASIKA Call for Innovation Programme supports aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs in Congo-Brazzaville through two structured tracks: Upskilling and Incubation. It focuses on Agritech, Climate Tech, Energy and green economy, and socially sustainable innovations. The programme helps entrepreneurs build strong business models, develop value propositions, strengthen teams, and create long-term growth plans.
What Is the YASIKA Programme?
The YASIKA Call for Innovation Programme is an entrepreneurship support initiative designed to strengthen innovation, business development and environmental sustainability in Congo-Brazzaville. It helps wannabe entrepreneurs turn ideas into viable business models and enables existing entrepreneurs to reinforce operations, structure teams and develop growth strategies. The programme directly targets innovations that advance agriculture, climate resilience, energy transition and social sustainability.
Why the Programme Matters
YASIKA is building a new generation of entrepreneurs who can fuel socio-economic development in Congo-Brazzaville. By combining entrepreneurial training, incubation support and sector-specific innovation focus areas, the programme aims to:
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Promote sustainable business creation
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Strengthen the agricultural value chain
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Support climate and environmental solutions
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Increase local employment and innovation capacity
Programme Tracks
1. Incubation Track
Designed for early-stage companies and founders with a validated idea and clear sustainability goals.
Eligible Sectors
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Agritech: Precision farming, sensors, drones, AI tools, productivity optimization
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Climate Tech: Solutions for climate adaptation, mitigation and resilience
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Energy & Green Economy: Clean energy, energy efficiency, circular economy initiatives
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Social Sustainability Projects: Innovations benefiting communities, agriculture value chains or the environment
What It Offers
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Business model development
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Technical and operational support
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Team structuring
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Growth planning
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Sector-focused mentorship
2. Upskilling Track
For individuals seeking to build foundational entrepreneurial skills before launching a business.
Requirements
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Reside in Congo-Brazzaville
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Access to a computer at least 3 days per week
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Basic digital literacy
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Commitment of at least 20 hours per week for 6 months
What It Offers
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Entrepreneurship training
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Digital skills development
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Guidance on idea development
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Practical assignments and hands-on learning
Who Is Eligible?
Incubation Track Eligibility
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Early-stage companies or founders
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Demonstrated environmental or social sustainability
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Operating in Agritech, Climate Tech, Energy/Green Economy, or related sectors
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Clear innovation with real-world application
Upskilling Track Eligibility
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Individuals living in Congo-Brazzaville
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Early-stage or aspiring entrepreneurs
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Basic digital skills and sustained availability
How the Programme Works
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Select Your Track
Choose Upskilling or Incubation based on stage of development. -
Prepare Your Application
Provide information on your idea, business stage, sector alignment and sustainability impact. -
Submit Through the Programme Portal
Complete all required fields and attach any supporting documents. -
Review & Selection
Applications are evaluated on innovation, feasibility, sustainability and commitment. -
Programme Participation
Selected applicants complete six months of structured training or incubation support. -
Growth & Graduation
Participants complete their track with a business model, growth plan, improved skills and operational readiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying for the Incubation Track without a clear idea or sustainability component
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Not demonstrating relevance to Agritech, Climate Tech or green economy sectors
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Weak value proposition and unclear problem statement
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Overlooking time commitment requirements
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Submitting incomplete or vague applications
Tips for a Strong Application
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Clearly describe the problem and your solution
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Highlight environmental or social impact
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Show your commitment through availability and readiness
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Provide real data or examples of need and market relevance
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Demonstrate your motivation to grow and innovate
FAQ
1. Can I apply if I only have an idea?
Yes. Apply to the Upskilling Track to develop your idea into a structured business model.
2. Do I need an existing company to apply for the Incubation Track?
Yes. You must have a startup or clear project that fits sustainability and sector requirements.
3. Is the programme limited to specific sectors?
Yes. Priority is given to Agritech, Climate Tech, Energy/Green Economy and socially sustainable innovations.
4. How long does the programme last?
Each track generally lasts six months.
5. Do I need technical skills?
Basic digital skills are required for the Upskilling Track. Sector-specific technical knowledge is an advantage for the Incubation Track.
6. Are teams allowed to apply?
Yes. Both individuals and teams may apply if they meet eligibility criteria.
7. Is participation free?
Program details may vary, but the support structure is typically offered at no cost to selected participants.
Conclusion
The YASIKA Call for Innovation Programme provides a structured pathway for developing strong, sustainable and impactful startups in Congo-Brazzaville. Through targeted tracks, sector-specific focus areas and hands-on guidance, the programme empowers aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs to build resilient businesses that contribute to environmental sustainability, economic growth and long-term local development.
For more information, visit Joule.