Highlights from WEIP’s Selection Day

Highlights from WEIP’s Selection Day

WEIP
On December 11, 2024, the Women Entrepreneurship Incubator Program (WEIP) Selection Day took place, spotlighting the potential of women entrepreneurs in Kenya. Over 100 entrepreneurs gathered to pitch their businesses, aiming for a spot in one of Kenya’s new incubation programs. The energy in the room was filled with excitement, but what stood out most was the focus on real solutions—businesses that go beyond profit to address pressing challenges in our communities. The day began with 5-minute pitches from entrepreneurs across Nairobi and Kiambu County, showcasing businesses in Agri-business & Agro-processing, Textiles & Apparel, Healthcare and Water & Sanitation. These were purpose-driven ventures tackling everyday issues with sustainable solutions like accessible healthcare and improved farming practices. The Judges’ FocusWhat set this Selection Day apart was the judges’ emphasis on scalability…
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Ballots and Business: How the U.S. Election Could Impact Kenyan Startups

Ballots and Business: How the U.S. Election Could Impact Kenyan Startups

Entrepreneurship, WEIP
As the U.S. presidential election draws global attention, it is crucial to understand how this major event could ripple through economies across the world, including here in Kenya. While the U.S. election might seem far removed from the daily operations of African startups, changes in U.S. policies—particularly regarding trade, foreign investment, and international development partnerships—can significantly shape the opportunities available to African businesses in the years to come. The U.S. is a key player in global markets, and its foreign policies often have far-reaching effects. For startups engaged in tech, agribusiness, renewable energy, or export-oriented sectors, shifts in leadership can influence access to capital, markets, and partnerships. In recent years, initiatives like Prosper Africa have fostered closer economic ties between the U.S. and Africa, aiming to increase trade and investment.…
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Empowering Kenya’s Future: Launch of the Women Entrepreneurship Incubator Program (WEIP)

Empowering Kenya’s Future: Launch of the Women Entrepreneurship Incubator Program (WEIP)

WEIP
September 26, 2024, the Women Entrepreneurship Incubator Program (WEIP) was officially launched by USAID in partnership with Strathmore University. This initiative aims to empower Women Owned-Small and Growing Businesses (WO-SGBs) across Kenya by providing tailored business development services, mentorship, and access to funding. This program is part of the growing recognition that women entrepreneurs are key drivers of economic growth in Kenya and beyond, yet often face barriers that limit their potential. Addressing Barriers to Women’s Entrepreneurship Women entrepreneurs face numerous challenges, from limited access to finance to restricted business development services​. Studies have shown that women-led businesses in Africa are more likely to experience growth constraints due to systemic barriers such as lack of market access, low confidence, and fewer networking opportunities​. According to a World Bank report, providing…
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