Business incubation program

The IIL runs a 12-month business incubation program focused on helping tech founders in Africa to succeed with their entrepreneurial ventures.

Startups entering the business incubation program have a proof-of-concept prototype for their product and a preliminary market assessment. The goal is for startups to leave the program with a revenue generating product that is positioned to successfully compete for additional investment they will need to scale.

Eligibility criteria

Eligible startups must be less than two years of age, and have the following when they apply:

1. A tech-enabled solution with a clear value proposition for an identified market
2. A proof-of-concept prototype for the proposed product that has the potential for profitability, inclusivity and scalability. Check evaluation criteria for details about prototype requirements
3. Preliminary market assessment and a compelling lean business model canvas for their business
4. Two co-founders who are willing to dedicate at least 40 hours of work per week to their company and all programmed incubation activities
5. Preferably be a registered company

We will not consider applications from startups with the following criteria: 

• Marketplaces (E-commerce, middleman platforms)
• Late stage startups which have raised significant capital and earn consistent revenue
• Startups without potential to generate jobs
• Non-tech enabled startups 
• Startups without functional prototypes
• Startups that have not been through more than 2 similar programs in the past 12 months

Benefits to startups

• $40,000 USD of financial support from CMU-Africa
• Twelve months of expert consulting services in: product development and market research, legal and compliance requirements, marketing and sales, and finance and accounting.
• $5,000 USD in Amazon Web Services credits and $1,500 USD in Amazon technical support services
• Introductions to angel investors, venture capital firms, accelerators, and CMU-Africa’s partners in Africa and Pittsburgh
• Access to business development workshops
• Working space and supporting services at our incubator in Kigali Innovation City
• Opportunity to participate in conferences, networking events, and exhibitions
• Access to CMU’s global mentorship network
• Connection to startups at CMU’s Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship in Pittsburgh

Application process

Apply today! The application window closes on February 28, 2025.

• All applications must be fully completed and submitted by the deadline
• Written applications will be reviewed by the IIL selection committee and the strongest applicants will be invited to pitch virtually. Check evaluation criteria for applications.
• The startups selected to enter the IIL will be notified by March 31, 2025.
• Admitted startups must confirm their desire to participate by April 10, 2025.
• The incubation program begins on May 31, 2025.

Join virtual information sessions on January 16, January 30, February 13, and February 27. Register now.