By Our Reporter
Japan International Cooperation (JICA) has launched the Next Innovation with Japan (NINJA) Accelerator program to benefit local startups.
The project, which is the first of its kind, is designed to help businesses gain market traction, build a strong network and partnership with Japan investment and consulting firms.
Speaking at the launch, UCHIYAMA Takayuki, the Chief Representative at JICA Uganda Office said, “By the end of August, we anticipate having 200 applications from eligible startups who will be subjected to a critical three levels assessment. The top five startups will qualify for the NINJA Accelerator Uganda program that will start on September 13.”
“For startups to participate in the program, it must be a registered company and operational for at least one year. It should be at a high growth-stage of development earning approximately $50,000 in revenue and ready for the next level growth. And it should also be economically viable and be able to demonstrate a strong promise of building a sustainable and impactful business.” Takayuki further noted, adding that, “we shall provide up to US$18,000 proof of concept funding to these startups.”
The program will be implemented by The Innovation Village, Hive Collab and Outbox who will provide mentorship and coaching sessions, develop models and market traction strategies for the businesses to scale.
According to Japheth Kawanguzi, Team Lead at The Innovation Village, this is an opportunity to reconfigure ourselves to an ongoing new reality to extend the reach of our products and services to the people who need them most.
“Let us continue to collaborate, to think big, to innovate and accelerate the use of technology not only to invigorate our businesses but to foster the development of ecosystem to the growth of the economy.” He noted.
Barbara Mutabazi, the Co-founder and Managing Director of Hive Collab also noted that Uganda has a very nascent ICT and startup ecosystem which presents a lot of opportunities for the recovery of not just the economy but for the people at the grassroots.
Deadline for application is Sunday, August 22, 2021. Startups can apply for the program here.