Category: Innovation & Incubation

Starting a business can feel like you're navigating uncharted waters alone. The ups and downs, the uncertainties—it is easy to feel isolated. But what if you had a community of driven entrepreneurs to navigate those challenges with? That’s the magic of the Founders Connect Series! Held on the 2nd of August, 2024, at the Microsoft Auditorium, Strathmore University, this event, part of the Talent 4 Startups Programme, brought together over 80 founders to connect, share, and learn from one another.  The impact is real: mentored businesses see an 83% increase in revenue, and 71% of entrepreneurs with mentors report higher job satisfaction, according to a study by MicroMentor. Events like Founders Connect are not just gatherings—they are lifelines, offering the mentorship and community that can make all the difference in…

Navigating the startup journey is akin to traversing a winding road fraught with challenges. There are many trials, from surviving the pivotal first year in the market to crafting a distinct brand identity and fostering a loyal customer base. However, even after establishing a foothold in the industry, a new mountain emerges: scaling the business. This phase presents its own set of hurdles, including inadequate funding, suboptimal managerial practices, and navigating through sometimes unfavorable government policies. These challenges are particularly pronounced in Kenya, yet they also offer opportunities for innovative solutions and strategic growth.  @iBizAfrica in partnership with WYLDE International hosted a startup and SME mentorship session on themed, ‘Navigating Growth Challenges Scales Strategies for African Startups and SMEs’ to delve into the intricacies of scaling startups in Kenya and…

In recent weeks, floods have affected different counties in Kenya, making access to basic necessities a significant challenge. Homes and roads have been damaged, isolating communities and hindering aid delivery. Amidst these difficulties, Kimberly Kuya, a graduate student in Business Management, at Strathmore University is developing a promising solution aimed at simplifying service provision through real-time connections.  Kimberly's vision for Kib Linking Services is grounded in practicality, efficiency, and economic empowerment. In Kenya, where technology adoption is on the rise, there's a growing demand for tech-driven solutions. According to DataReportal’s Digital 2023 report, the number of internet users in Kenya reached 17.86 million by June 2023, highlighting the increasing reliance on digital platforms for everyday needs. Kib Linking Services will operate on a user-friendly platform that enables individuals to find…

GLC HP STRATHMORE HACKATHON Did you know that in 2024, almost 1.13 million primary school children in Kenya aged 6 to 13 years old have dropped  out of school, according to a recent survey? This alarming statistic highlights a range of challenges hindering access to education, including limited internet access, parental reservations about education, nomadic lifestyles, and financial barriers to school fees. Globally, approximately 5% of children are out of school, while many enrolled students struggle to meet educational standards. Disparities in access to quality education persist, particularly in underserved communities, as highlighted by a report from Usawa, a non-governmental organisation. In response to these challenges, the Global Learning Council (GLC), HP, and @iBizAfrica-Strathmore University have united to launch the GLC HP Strathmore Hackathon. This collaborative initiative aims to merge…

Mercy Kilonzo, a second-year student studying Financial Economics at Strathmore University, envisions making waves in the healthcare industry with her startup idea, Amek Manufacturing. As one of the top 20 student startups selected for the DDQIC Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship Program: Strathmore Chapter, Mercy's journey is not just about entrepreneurship; it's about conceptualizing a transformative idea that could reshape the future of healthcare. "I've always had a passion for finding solutions to real-world problems," Mercy shares. "When I learnt about the shortage of affordable orthopedic implants in our country, I knew I had to do something about it." Influenced by both parents in the medical industry and her desire to make a difference, Mercy conceived the idea of Amek Manufacturing, aimed at locally producing orthopedic implants, screws, and plates…

The Dunin Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre Strathmore Chapter Program Launch recently marked a significant milestone in Africa's entrepreneurial landscape, bringing together key stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and the entrepreneurial spirit. This initiative, in partnership with iBizAfrica, Strathmore University, and Dunin Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre (DDQIC), exemplified the power of universities and industries working hand in hand to foster entrepreneurship. A Photo of The DDQIC Top 20. Strathmore, Nairobi.  The event served as a platform for attendees to gain invaluable insights and inspiration from those involved  and a past program participant. Notable speakers included Oliver Omondi, the founder of ZuriPacks and a past program participant, who shared his journey and experiences in entrepreneurship. Dr. Joseph Sevilla, the Director of @iLabAfrica, passionately emphasized the urgency of empowering Africa's…