MEST Africa and UNICEF have partnered up to launch the 4th editor of the UNICEF StartUp Lab.
The lab is a six-month accelerator empowering entrepreneurs dedicated to social impact and tech-driven solutions. The programme is led by UNICEF in Ghana, supported by KOICA, and implemented by MEST Africa.
Details
Launched in 2019, the Lab has supported over 50 startups in building a product, developing and strengthening business operations and strategy, communicating and growing relationships with users, partners, and funders, as well as providing prototyping funding.
The Lab has played a pivotal role in the successful discovery and development of 4 Digital Public Goods in Ghana.
The UNICEF StartUp Lab provides a unique product by integrating business incubation and wide-reaching technical expertise and systems knowledge in the social sector, amplified by the reach of UNICEF’s and KOICA’s partnerships.
How It Works
Applicants will be taken through a 6-month course that includes different modules including market and user research, business modeling, and marketing and communications.
Select startups have a chance to receive up to GHS 32,000 of prototyping funding and networking and investment opportunities as well as an opportunity to apply for the $100K equity-free UNICEF Venture Fund.
Eligibility
- Your startup has been operational for 1+ year
- Your startup is a registered business in Ghana (no NGOs, foundations, or individuals)
- Your startup has technology as the core enabler of the business
- Your startup has a business model with a social impact that addresses at least one of the Sustainable Development Goals
- Open-source solutions, or startups that are willing to open-source their solutions, are particularly encouraged to apply
- Startups with female founders/co-founders are encouraged to apply
- The program is designed to include startups from all regions of Ghana
Applications are now open and will close by the end of February 2024.
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