A training, mentorship and networking program for female startup founders capped off by financial assistance was started two days ago at the ICT park. Spearheaded by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI), the Bruh Women Startup Founders Program attracted 157 applicants in three weeks with 74 women qualifying for the 10-day boot camp.
Ten women founders who successfully complete the program get a share of the 1 million birr financial prize to springboard their businesses.
Powered by support from the Ministry of Labor and Skills, UNDP, Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOIKA), and the Next Ethiopia Startup Initiative (NEST), the program looks to bridge the gender divide in the technology entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Elham Mohammed, Program Specialist at EDI, expects the program’s design to help foster growth and innovation while contributing to the alleviation of gender disparity plaguing the sector. The immersive boot camp looks to equip female founders with skills for successful venture launches by providing a curriculum that includes field visits, mentorship, and experience-sharing events.
“The support extends beyond a one-time financial reward,” Elham told Shega.
Opportunities to participate in pitch competitions, exhibitions, and additional financial support are also part of the program according to the program specialist.
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