Applications are now open for Acumen and IKEA social entrepreneurship East Africa accelerator. The accelerator program is designed to support social entrepreneurs to develop a scalable business model. This 19-week program will strengthen the capacity of social enterprises in East Africa to scale and improve the lives of the poor and vulnerable.
IKEA Social Entrepreneurship is an initiative within IKEA that’s all about making a positive impact. It works with pioneers and pathfinders who use their business as a way to make everyday life better for those who need it most and strives towards a more equal and inclusive society.
If you’re a social entrepreneur in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia or Rwanda then be among the first to apply.
SEED FUNDING: $25K FOR TOP 2 TEAMS
DEADLINE TO APPLY: JANUARY 14TH
Activities
- Refine and test hypotheses for developing a scalable business model
- Develop a robust social impact and financial strategy
- Gain best practices for forming partnerships to achieve scale
- Learn from practical case studies of other East African social enterprises that have successfully scaled
- Pitch your business to investors and other stakeholders at a final showcase
- Build networks with other entrepreneurs and supporters in East Africa and beyond
Eligibility
This is an intensive program delivered primarily online for social entrepreneurs in East Africa who:
- Run a social enterprise (nonprofit or for-profit) based in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, or Ethiopia
- Have demonstrated market traction and are post-revenue
- Have a team equivalent to 3 full time staff
- Focus on promoting livelihoods, equality and inclusion
Benefits
- 6 Peer Learning Labs
- At least 6 sessions with an IKEA advisor
- Video tutorials
- Case studies from East African social enterprises
- Travel to and accommodations for a Final Summit in East Africa
- Certificate from Acumen
- Eligibility to compete for $25k per startup in seed funding