Kefeta Project Launches Business Competition for Ethiopian Youth

Ethiopia’s Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) and NICE Innovation Incubation Center, funded by USAID, are joining forces to launch a business competition in 17 cities across Ethiopia.

The Kefeta Project Business Incubation Program will be offered to 85 selected startups in the digital service, textile, leather, and agri-tech sectors. The program will provide end-to-end business development support, including selection, due diligence, and hands-on assistance in establishing fully functional enterprises that create employment opportunities.

The top five contestants, showcasing innovative businesses with promising viability and high-growth potential, will receive access to the Kefeta Start-Up Grant

The business competition is part of the Kefeta Project, which aims to create new jobs and improve the quality of existing ones. The Kefeta project, funded by USAID, is a 5-year initiative targeting the creation of decent jobs for over 8,000 youth in 17 Ethiopian cities.

Ethiopian citizens between the ages of 18 and 29 who have an innovative business idea with the potential for quick operationalization are encouraged to apply. The deadline for applications is May 30, 2023.

Eligible applicants must not have accessed similar training, seed money, incubation, or acceleration support services within the past two years. Women, disabled youths, and internally displaced people are particularly encouraged to apply.

For more information or to apply for the program, interested individuals can visit the Kefeta Project Business Incubation Program website.