Venture Incubation Programme applications open

Entrepreneurs seeking to launch digital solutions on the African continent are invited to apply for the Venture Incubation Programme, a partnership between MTN and the Graduate School of Business’s Solution Space.

The programme offers start-ups mentorship, workshops and industry expertise to help develop new ventures and validate their business models. It also provides access to funding, networks, exposure and recognition.

Solution Space manager Sarah-Anne Alman says that the first 90 days of a start-up are the hardest and when entrepreneurs feel least supported.

“This programme is geared to present entrepreneurs with all the tools needed to implement their ideas and bring them to fruition. The idea is to inspire, nurture and equip the next generation of entrepreneurs to build a better future for the African continent.”

Since its inception in 2016, the Venture Incubation Programme has supported various successful businesses, such as eating out app Feastfox and chatting platform Chat2Brand, as well as online emotional intelligence platform Mygrow and consumer neuroscience consultancy Neural Sense.

Ideal applicants for the programme are teams of a minimum of two entrepreneurs, with the founder or major shareholder being the lead participant and able to attend a 12-week programme for approximately 30 hours a week at the Solution Space.

Applicants should have an initial concept development demonstrating a deep understanding of the market environment and potential problems. They should also pose a compelling solution that is innovation-driven and scalable. A minimum viable product ready for early-market testing will be an added advantage.

“We are looking for people who are passionate and committed. We want the doers, the movers and the creators to apply for this programme,” says Alman.

Applications for the Venture Incubation Programme close on 28 February 2018.

For more information, contact Gcobisa Maqanda on +27 (0)21 406 1430.