Ethiopia has set on a journey with the ambition to become Africa’s next startup hub. With its strong demographics and fast-growing economy, the country has been restoring its government policies and rallying digital entrepreneurs. However, they are still many challenges preventing the tech sector from contributing to its full potential to growth and development, in particular in the areas of business support, technical and business skills, as well as international linkages.
The #FastTrackTech Africa initiative aims to support digital entrepreneurs and tech startups in sub-Saharan Africa go international – with training and coaching focused on regional & international business generation and investment promotion. The two-year project started in October 2019 and targets seven countries, including Ethiopia.
Through the project, Ethiopian start-ups will receive a blend of online and onsite training and targeted coaching on different topics related to building and further developing their business. Besides, more mature start-ups will have access to opportunities in the form of local and international start-up events and competitions to improve both their business and connect with potential investors around the globe. For more information about the project, visit the International Trade Centre website.
We are calling upon Ethiopian startups, which are using digital technology as a core enabling factor and that wish to see their businesses scale and internationalize to apply for the program. Applicants can visit https://vc4a.com/international-trade-centre/fasttracktech-africa/ to apply. Applications close on 15 November 2019.
#FastTrackTech Africa is financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland and executed by the International Trade Centre, a United Nations Agency dedicated to supporting the internationalization of SMEs in transitioning economies.