Meet the Innovation Manager.

Innovation Managers are the architects of innovation ecosystems. They design programmes, build partnerships, support founders, engage stakeholders, and create the environments that allow innovation to thrive. Whether they’re working within governments, universities, corporates, incubators, accelerators, or entrepreneurship support organisations, their work is often the invisible force that powers entrepreneurial ecosystems.

So, what does a day in the life of an Innovation Manager actually look like?

Building Partnerships That Matter

Innovation is rarely the work of a single individual or organisation. It thrives when people, ideas, and institutions come together.

Innovation Managers spend a significant part of their role building strategic partnerships between startups, investors, universities, governments, corporates, and ecosystem enablers. They are constantly identifying opportunities for collaboration and creating pathways that enable innovation to flourish.

Behind every successful innovation programme is a network of stakeholders working towards a common goal—and Innovation Managers are often the ones bringing them together.

Designing Programmes That Create Impact

From startup accelerators and entrepreneurship programmes to innovation challenges and capacity-building initiatives, Innovation Managers are responsible for designing experiences that create meaningful outcomes.

Their role goes far beyond logistics and operations. They ask critical questions such as:

• What problem are we trying to solve?

• Who are the people we want to serve?

• How can we maximise impact?

• What resources and partnerships are required?

Programme design sits at the heart of innovation management. Great programmes don’t happen by accident—they are intentionally designed with impact in mind.

Supporting Founders and Ecosystem Builders

Innovation Managers are deeply invested in the success of the people and organisations they support.

One day, they may be helping founders prepare for investment opportunities. Another day, they may be facilitating workshops for ecosystem leaders or advising organisations on how to strengthen their innovation strategies.

Their role requires empathy, adaptability, and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs and ecosystem stakeholders across emerging markets.

Ultimately, they are problem-solvers who enable others to succeed.

Managing Diverse Stakeholders

Innovation ecosystems are dynamic and complex.

An Innovation Manager may find themselves working with startup founders, corporate leaders, government representatives, development agencies, investors, and community organisations—all within the same project.

Success in innovation management isn’t just about having technical expertise. It requires strong leadership, communication, stakeholder management, and the ability to navigate diverse perspectives while driving collective outcomes.

The best Innovation Managers know how to align people around a shared vision.

Measuring What Matters

Innovation programmes are only as valuable as the impact they create.

Innovation Managers are increasingly expected to measure outcomes, communicate value to stakeholders, and continuously improve the initiatives they lead. This means understanding what works, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring that programmes deliver meaningful and measurable results.

Impact measurement has become an essential skill in today’s innovation landscape.

Building the Next Generation of Innovation Leaders

As innovation ecosystems continue to evolve across Africa and emerging markets, the demand for skilled innovation professionals has never been greater.

The organisations shaping the future of entrepreneurship and innovation need people who can design impactful programmes, build partnerships, manage stakeholders, and create measurable change.

This is one of the reasons why the Innovation Managers Executive Learning Programme (IMELP) was created.

IMELP is designed to equip innovation professionals, ecosystem builders, programme managers, and entrepreneurship leaders with the practical skills, frameworks, and perspectives needed to lead innovation initiatives with confidence and impact.

Because behind every successful startup ecosystem is someone making innovation happen.

And sometimes, that someone is an Innovation Manager.

Ready to build the skills that drive innovation ecosystems?
Explore the Innovation Managers Executive Learning Programme (IMELP) and join a growing community of innovation leaders across Africa and emerging markets.
Applications Closes on July 31st 2026.

Apply Now

Across Africa and other emerging markets, there is no shortage of brilliant founders, ambitious startups, or innovation-focused initiatives. Yet, one challenge continues to surface across ecosystems—there aren’t enough people equipped to build, manage, and scale innovation programs effectively.

Who manages startup accelerators? Who designs entrepreneurship programs within universities? Who helps governments implement innovation-led initiatives? Who builds meaningful partnerships between startups, corporates, investors, and policymakers?

The answer is often a group of professionals working quietly behind the scenes—innovation managers, ecosystem builders, programme leaders, and entrepreneurship support professionals. Their work is critical, yet there are very few structured pathways to develop the skills required for these roles.

That’s the gap IMELP was designed to address.

Why the Curriculum Looks the Way It Does

We intentionally designed IMELP to move beyond theory and focus on practical capabilities that innovation professionals need today.

The curriculum equips participants to:

• Understand how innovation ecosystems function and the stakeholders that shape them.

• Design and manage innovation and entrepreneurship programmes.

• Build partnerships across the public and private sectors.

• Develop leadership and strategic thinking capabilities.

• Measure impact and communicate value to stakeholders.

• Navigate emerging trends influencing innovation across Africa and other emerging markets.

Each module has been carefully selected to help participants bridge the gap between ambition and execution.

Because great ideas don’t build ecosystems—great people do.

Learning That Reflects the Real World

Applications Close July 31

IMELP exists because we believe innovation ecosystems are only as strong as the people building them. It is built for people who are already doing the work of innovation and want the frameworks, network, and accountability to do it better. Seats are limited to keep the cohort tight enough for real peer learning — so if you’ve been sitting on this, now’s the moment to move.

Apply Now

About IMELP

The Innovation Managers Executive Leadership Program (IMELP) is Hindsight Ventures and Startup Réseau’s flagship 8-week program built for people who own innovation inside their organisations — corporate innovation leads, ESO and hub managers, and ecosystem builders navigating the gap between strategy and execution.

Across its first two editions, IMELP cohorts have walked away with more than frameworks on a slide. Past participants have used the program to build board-ready innovation strategies, redesign how their teams measure and report impact, form new partnerships with funders and corporates, and — for several — launch or restructure startup programs within their own institutions. The program’s format is deliberately practical: live sessions with practitioners, peer breakouts, 1:1 office hours, and a capstone project that turns the eight weeks into an action plan you actually take back to work.

Now in its third edition, IMELP is back with a facilitator lineup and module structure built on everything we’ve learned from those cohorts. Here’s who’s teaching, and what you’ll cover.

Meet Your Facilitators

The first Seven practitioners from across Africa’s innovation ecosystem — founders, ecosystem builders, and lab managers — to bring their real-world playbooks into the (virtual) room.

Jagruti Bista — Co-Founder, Hindsight Ventures & MD, Startup Réseau
Builds accelerator and capacity-building programs across emerging markets and Africa.

Ajay Ramasubramaniam — Founder, Hindsight Ventures & Startup Réseau
22+ years building innovation ecosystems across India, Africa and Southeast Asia.

Mponeng Seshea — Co-Founder & Managing Director, Imizizi Evolution
Drives venture-building and inclusive growth for founders across Africa.

Shenade Ralph — Managing Director, Imizizi Evolution
Leads executive operations and stakeholder engagement for inclusive impact funding.

Grace Nakibaala — Manager, Uganda Response Innovation Lab (U_RIL)
Architect and innovator scaling humanitarian solutions; 2022 Mandela Washington Fellow.

Kevwe Jefia — Investment & Venture Support Lead, Impact Hub Lagos
Two-time founder bringing a founder-investor lens to venture support and policy.

Monica Ndalama — Senior Programmes Manager, mHub Malawi
Blends governance, human rights and technology expertise to drive social impact.

Programme Modules: What you’ll cover

Applications Close July 31

Diverse mentors. Eight modules. Zero fluff. IMELP 2026 is built for people who are already doing the work of innovation and want the frameworks, network, and accountability to do it better. Seats are limited to keep the cohort tight enough for real peer learning — so if you’ve been sitting on this, now’s the moment to move.

Apply Now!

Hindsight Ventures is pleased to invite you to the AFRISE Challenge 2026 International Demo Day, showcasing high-potential African startups building innovative solutions across sectors including fintech, climate, agritech, and health.

The Demo Day will bring together founders from 🇳🇬 Nigeria, 🇬🇭 Ghana, 🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇨🇮 Côte d’Ivoire, 🇺🇬 Uganda, 🇸🇳 Senegal, 🇲🇦 Morocco, and 🇷🇼 Rwanda to pitch their ventures and engage with investors, venture studios, ecosystem builders, and strategic partners.

Event Details
📅 Date: 18 June 2026
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM EAT
💻 Venue: Virtual (Zoom)

The session will also feature a snapshot of the participating startups and the broader AFRISE Challenge 2026 cohort as they prepare for the next stage of their growth journey 🚀

We would be delighted to have you join us as we spotlight emerging founders shaping the future of innovation across Africa.

RSVP here for Demo Day 🎤

A Closer Look at IMELP’s Structure and Delivery

IMELP is carefully designed and curated to go beyond theory. It is immersive, practical and built for impact.

Through a blended learning approach, you will gain the skills and mindset to lead in real-world contexts:

🔹 Interactive workshops that challenge how you think and lead

🔹 Real-world case studies grounded in Africa’s evolving landscape

🔹 Group exercises and discussions that deepen insight through shared perspectives

🔹 Access to a curated pre-recorded content library for continuous learning

More than a programme, IMELP is a leadership experience that prepares you for meaningful impact!

Secure your spot!

Hindsight Ventures at the Tanzania Impact Investment Forum 🇹🇿

Last week our Regional Lead Rose Urassa took the stage at the Tanzania Impact Investment Forum - TIIF to lead a session on "Exploring the Role of Corporate Venture Capital in Local Ecosystems."

The room was graced with people who matter most to this conversation: startup founders, investors, and ecosystem builders. And what unfolded was exactly the kind of dialogue Tanzania's innovation ecosystem needs more of.

Here's what we put on the table:

- 72% of Fortune 500 CEOs named technology as their #1 challenge. Corporate survival is no longer guaranteed and CVC is one of the most powerful tools available to respond.
- Global corporations from Barclays to Toyota to Safaricom have already moved. The question for Tanzania is: who moves here?
- Tanzania's Vision 2050 targets a $700 billion economy. That ambition needs CVC as infrastructure, not an optional add-on.
- The blueprint exists on the continent. Naspers. Chandaria Group. Axian. Bakhresa/Azam right here in Tanzania. The logic is proven. The formalisation is the next step.

The conversation in that room reinforced something we believe deeply at Hindsight Ventures. The East African ecosystem doesn't lack potential. It lacks the structured capital and corporate courage to back it at scale.

CVC is part of that answer.

Thank you to the Tanzania Impact Investment Forum for the platform and to every founder, investor, and hub leader who showed up and pushed the conversation forward.

This is what ecosystem building looks like.

If you were part of any of these sessions, or if you’ve been following along from a distance, here’s a full recap — and an update on what comes next.

The Roadshow Series: A Look Back

🇺🇬 Uganda Roadshow — Kampala | 29th April 2026

National ICT Innovation Hub, Kampala

The roadshow kicked off in Kampala under the theme “Catalyzing Uganda’s Innovation Ecosystem — Empowering Innovation Leaders to Scale Impact.” The session brought together voices from across the ecosystem, including Vincent Okema from the Ministry of Trade, Industry & Cooperatives, alongside Sean Ssali and Ajay Ramasubramaniam from Hindsight Ventures. The conversations were grounded, honest, and set a strong tone for the series — exploring what it truly takes to build and sustain innovation infrastructure on the continent.

🌐 Virtual Roadshow | 7th May 2026

Zoom

A week later, the series went virtual with a panel discussion on “Building and Scaling Innovation Ecosystems in Africa: Opportunities, Challenges and the Role of Collaboration.” The session featured Donald Maasa, Co-Founder & Team Lead of Founders Lounge Uganda, alongside Francis Okwara, Senior Innovation Officer at Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), and Tumelo Boitumelo, Safety and Health Coordinator at Naledi Mining Services. The virtual format opened the conversation to a wider geography — a reminder that innovation leadership is a continental conversation.

🇰🇪 Kenya Roadshow — Nairobi | 8th May 2026

Britam Betalab, Nairobi

Nairobi brought sharp energy and sharp questions. The Kenya Roadshow explored the theme “Driving Silicon Savannah’s Next Chapter: Empowering Innovation Leaders to Scale Sustainable Impact” with a standout panel featuring Fossie Adhiambo (Partnerships & Digital Innovation, Britam), Fiona Kiruja (CEO, African Angel Academy), and Zee Gitahi (Innovation Programs Consultant). The conversations at Britam Betalab dug into what the next phase of Kenya’s innovation ecosystem actually requires — and what kind of leaders need to step up to drive it.

🇹🇿 Tanzania Roadshow — Dar es Salaam | 12th May 2026

Stanbic Biashara Incubator, Dar es Salaam

The series wrapped up on the shores of the Indian Ocean with a conversation centred on “Innovation Managers: Unlocking Tanzania’s Innovation Potential — Building Scalable and Inclusive Ecosystems.” Panellists included Kai Mollel (Head, Business Incubator, Stanbic Bank Tanzania), Kiko Kiwanga (Executive Director, Tanzania Innovation Hubs Network), and Rose Urassa (East Africa Lead, Hindsight Ventures). Hosted at the Stanbic Biashara Incubator, in partnership with the Tanzania Innovation Hubs Network, the session closed the roadshow series on a high note — grounded in local context and continental ambition.

🎓 About IMELP — The Program

The Innovation Managers Executive Learning Program (IMELP) is Hindsight Ventures’ flagship executive learning initiative, now entering its 3rd Edition. Designed for professionals who are building, managing, or aspiring to lead Entrepreneurship Support Organisations (ESOs), the program is an 8-week, module-based, fully online learning experience.

Who is it for?

IMELP is built for aspiring innovation managers, ESO professionals, corporate innovation teams, and career changers looking to step into leadership roles in the startup ecosystem.

What will you learn?

The program is structured across five core modules:

• Introduction to Innovation & Tech Ecosystems — how accelerators, incubators, and ESOs operate and create value

• Startup Support Essentials — mentorship frameworks, funding pathways, and market access strategies

• Program Design & Management — cohort selection, curriculum design, and evaluation frameworks

• Demo Days & Events — how to plan, organise, and run high-impact pitch events and workshops

• Monitoring, Reporting & Impact Assessment — tools and approaches to measure, communicate, and demonstrate the impact of innovation programs

The track record speaks for itself. Across its first two editions, IMELP brought together approximately 30 professionals from 7+ countries, featured 40+ speakers from 17 nations, and delivered 100+ hours of structured learning across 32 sessions.

Key Dates for the 3rd Edition:

• Applications Close: 31st July 2026

• Program Starts: 7th September 2026

  

Scholarships Are Available!

We believe that access to quality learning should not be a barrier to building stronger innovation ecosystems. Scholarship opportunities are available for the 3rd Edition of IMELP.

If the program fee has been a concern, we encourage you to reach out — we’d love to find a way to make this work for you.

How to Apply?

Applications for IMELP 3rd Edition are open. If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey as an innovation leader, we’d love to have you in the cohort.

Apply Here

Questions? Reach out to us at shreemoy@startupreseau.com or follow us on Instagram for updates.

Hindsight Ventures | Empowering Leaders to Drive Startup Success

The Biomedical Innovations Accelerator Program (BIOMIC) is designed to support the next generation of innovators, researchers, and founders building impactful healthcare and life sciences solutions in Uganda. Implemented in partnership with the Makerere University Lung Institute and supported by the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat (STI), the program is focused on bridging the gap between research and scalable market-ready innovation.

BIOMIC is currently looking to identify high-potential founders and researchers working across key sectors including:

🧬 Biotech & Vaccines
🏥 Healthtech & Telemedicine
🔬 Diagnostics & AI/ML
💊 Therapeutics & Research

The accelerator follows a 6-month hybrid model, combining in-person expert sessions, mentorship, virtual masterclasses, and ecosystem engagement opportunities. Participants will gain access to:

➡️ Expert-led accelerator programming and mentorship
➡️ Up to $500,000 in technology credits from partners including Microsoft, Zoho, Canva, and more
➡️ Opportunities for funding and grant recommendations for top-performing startups
➡️ A Hybrid Demo Day in Kampala connecting startups with investors, corporates, and government stakeholders 🚀

If you are building innovative healthcare solutions in Uganda, this is an opportunity to accelerate your growth, strengthen your product, and engage directly with leading ecosystem partners.

📅 Application Deadline: 5 June 2026

Learn more about the program and application process via the link shared below.

Click here to apply now 🧪🧬

Hindsight Ventures is pleased to invite you to the AFRISE Challenge 2026 International Demo Day, showcasing high-potential African startups building innovative solutions across sectors including fintech, climate, agritech, and health.

The Demo Day will bring together founders from 🇳🇬 Nigeria, 🇬🇭 Ghana, 🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇨🇮 Côte d’Ivoire, 🇺🇬 Uganda, 🇸🇳 Senegal, 🇲🇦 Morocco, and 🇷🇼 Rwanda to pitch their ventures and engage with investors, venture studios, ecosystem builders, and strategic partners.

Event Details
📅 Date: 18 June 2026
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM EAT
💻 Venue: Virtual (Zoom)

The session will also feature a snapshot of the participating startups and the broader AFRISE Challenge 2026 cohort as they prepare for the next stage of their growth journey 🚀

We would be delighted to have you join us as we spotlight emerging founders shaping the future of innovation across Africa.

Register here for the Demo Day

The AFRISE Challenge 2026 shortlisted cohort is now preparing for the next stage of the program, where selected founders from across Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire will take part in the upcoming International Virtual Demo Day. Following weeks of mentorship, venture development, and ecosystem engagement, 15 startups will take centre stage to present their ventures to investors, partners, and entrepreneurship support organisations.

Demo Day Details:
📅 Date: 12 June 2026
⏰ Time: 3:00 PM EAT
💻 Venue: Zoom
🎤 Featuring: 15 shortlisted startups from 8 African markets

Click the banner below to register and join us for Demo Day 🚀

Click here to RSVP 📋

BIOMIC Accelerator Webinar – From Lab to Market 🧬 ✅

Join us for the upcoming BIOMIC Accelerator Program Webinar and engage directly with leaders shaping Uganda’s biomedical innovation ecosystem. The session will feature a panel discussion on “From Lab to Market: Translating Biomedical Research into Scalable Health Solutions,” bringing together experts from academia, research, government, and innovation ecosystems to explore how high-potential biomedical solutions can successfully move from research to commercial impact.

Webinar Details:
📅 Date: 28 May 2026
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM EAT
💻 Venue: Zoom
🎙️ Featuring: Distinguished speakers and ecosystem leaders from government, academia, research institutions, and Hindsight Ventures

If you are building the future of healthcare, life sciences, diagnostics, biotech, or health innovation in Uganda, this is an opportunity to learn more about the BIOMIC Accelerator Program, hear directly from the organising institutions, and understand how the program is supporting the next generation of biomedical innovators 🧬

Click the banner below to register and join the conversation.

Click here to RSVP!

These sessions also offered prospective participants a closer look into how the Innovation Managers Executive Learning Program (IMELP) is designed to equip professionals with practical capabilities to build stronger innovation ecosystems and support high-growth ventures across the continent 🚀🌍

Join us for the upcoming BIOMIC Accelerator Program Webinar on 27 May to learn more about the program and engage directly with the organising institutions. Hosted virtually on Zoom, the session will feature a panel discussion on “From Lab to Market: Translating Biomedical Research into Scalable Health Solutions.”

Are you building the future of healthcare and life sciences in Uganda? BIOMIC, established by the Makerere University Lung Institute and funded by the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat (STI) of Uganda, is a 6-month hybrid accelerator designed to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and market-ready innovation.

Join the session to explore the program, hear directly from ecosystem leaders, and understand how BIOMIC is supporting the next generation of biomedical innovators 🧬

Click here to RSVP 📋

Meet the Startups Selected for AFRISE Challenge 2026 🌍

We’re excited to announce the shortlist of 33 startups selected for the next stage of the AFRISE Challenge 2026 🎉 Chosen from a highly competitive pool of 1600+ applicants across eight African countries, these founders are set to embark on an intensive 4-week virtual venture development bootcamp focused on strengthening their business models, refining their growth strategies, and preparing for scale. The program brings together successful founders, industry experts, mentors, and investors to support the cohort through this journey.

Over the coming weeks, the cohort will gain access to mentorship, leadership development, ecosystem connections, and technology support as they build toward the next phase of the challenge 🚀 The journey will culminate in an International Virtual Demo Day, where top-performing startups will have the opportunity to pitch to early-stage investors and entrepreneurship support organisations for potential funding and partnership opportunities.

We are thrilled to announce the official launch of the National Biomedical Innovations Accelerator Program (BIOMIC). Launched on April 30, 2026, by the Minister of STI, Dr. Monica Musenero, and H.E. Vice President Major (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, this initiative marks a bold step toward positioning Uganda as a global leader in healthcare and life sciences.

Established by the Makerere University Lung Institute and funded by the Government of Uganda (STI-OP) in partnership with Hindsight Ventures, BIOMIC is designed to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and market-ready solutions.

🏥 What is BIOMIC?

BIOMIC is a 6-month hybrid accelerator dedicated to co-creating a sustainable ecosystem for healthcare and life sciences startups. The program focuses on four strategic pillars:

• Accelerate: Speeding up the time-to-market for unique research and products.

• Scale: Positioning startups for regional and global growth.

• Integration: Ensuring seamless adoption within the healthcare industry.

• Innovation: Shaping the future of the health industry.

🧬 Target Sectors

We are looking for hi-tech, high-potential founders and researchers working in:

• Healthtech & Telemedicine: Digital delivery, remote monitoring, and patient engagement.

• Biotech & Vaccines: Genetic engineering, molecular biology, and immunity boosters.

• Diagnostics & AI/ML: AI-powered tools, point-of-care devices, and predictive algorithms.

• Therapeutics: Novel treatments, drugs, and digital therapeutics.

💰 Why Join?

Startups selected for the cohort will gain access to unparalleled resources:

• Expert Mentorship: Masterclasses on IP, product scaling, and route-to-market strategies.

• Tech Credits: Up to $500,000 in credits from partners like Microsoft, Zoho, AWS, Canva and more

• Funding Opportunities: Top 3–5 businesses will be recommended for financial grants and support.

• Demo Day: A high-profile pitch event to an audience of investors, DFIs, and corporate leaders.

Join us in leading the charge for a healthier future in Uganda.

Learn more here and APPLY NOW 🇺🇬

IMELP Kenya Roadshow This Friday – RSVP Now 🇰🇪

🇰🇪 The Kenya Roadshow: Scaling the Silicon Savannah

Building a startup is hard; building an ecosystem is even harder. It requires a specific breed of leadership - Innovation Managers who can bridge the gap between ambitious ideas and sustainable, scalable impact.

Following the successful roadshow in Kampala, we are excited to announce the Nairobi leg of our Innovation Managers Executive Learning Program (3rd Edition) roadshow! We are gathering some of the brightest minds in Kenyan innovation to discuss what it truly takes to lead the next chapter of the Silicon Savannah.

🎙️ The Panel
Join us for a high-level conversation on "Empowering Innovation Leaders to Scale Sustainable Impact" featuring:

Fossie A. (Partnerships & Digital Innovation, Britam)

Fiona Kiruja (CEO, African Angel Academy)

Zee Gitahi (Innovation Programs Consultant)

📍 Event details
Date: 8th May, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM EAT onwards
Venue: Britam BetaLab, Nairobi

At Hindsight Ventures, our mission is to empower the leaders who drive startup success. This roadshow is a unique opportunity to network with peers, share best practices, and gain insights into the evolving landscape of African innovation.

RSVP for Kenya Roadshow 🇰🇪

We are excited to bring the Innovation Managers Executive Learning Program (IMELP) – Cohort 3 to Kenya through a dedicated roadshow in Nairobi. 🇰🇪

The session will centre on the theme:
“Driving Silicon Savannah’s Next Chapter: Empowering Innovation Leaders to Scale Sustainable Impact.”

This roadshow will bring together ecosystem leaders, innovators, and practitioners for:

💡 A thought-provoking panel discussion
🤝 Meaningful networking with ecosystem stakeholders
📈 Practical insights on building and scaling impactful innovation programs

We are also excited to feature a distinguished panel of speakers who will share their perspectives and experiences:

• Fossie Adhiambo – Partnerships & Digital Innovation, Britam

• Fiona Kiruja – CEO, African Angel Academy

• Zee Gitahi – Innovation Program Consultant

Event Details
📅 Date: 8 May 2026
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM EAT
📍 Location: Britam Betalab, Nairobi, Kenya

Whether you are an innovation manager, ecosystem builder, or corporate leader, this session offers an opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to shaping the future of innovation in Africa.

Click here to RSVP 🇰🇪

Looking forward to the Tanzania Roadshow? 🇹🇿 Join us in Dar es Salaam on 12 May as we explore building scalable and inclusive innovation ecosystems.

The session will feature a focused panel discussion with ecosystem leaders, offering practical perspectives on enabling innovation, strengthening support systems, and scaling impact across emerging markets.

We’ll be sharing more details on the session and panelists shortly.

Click the banner below to register your interest early.

Click here to RSVP for Roadshow 🇹🇿

We are pleased to invite you to our upcoming IMELP Roadshow series for the 3rd edition of the program.

Join us on:
📅 29 April 2026 — Uganda Roadshow
📅 7 May 2026 — Virtual Roadshow
📅 12 May 2026 — Tanzania Roadshow
📅 21 May 2026 — Ghana Roadshow

What to expect:
➡ In-depth insights into the IMELP program
➡ Panel discussions with regional innovation leaders

These sessions are designed to help you better understand the program and explore how IMELP can support your journey in the innovation ecosystem.

Click here to learn more and RSVP

The Innovation Managers Executive Learning Program (IMELP) is an 8-week, fully online program by Hindsight Ventures designed to equip professionals with the skills, networks, and practical tools required to build and manage high-impact innovation programs.

Whether you are looking to transition into the innovation ecosystem or strengthen your role within it, IMELP offers a structured, hands-on learning experience tailored for today’s evolving startup landscape.

What you will gain:
➡ Practical insights into ecosystem mapping and stakeholder engagement
➡ Hands-on experience in program design, startup selection, and support
➡ Exposure to real-world case studies and industry experts
➡ Access to a global network of innovation leaders and practitioners

The program follows a blended learning approach, including interactive workshops, case studies, group exercises, and access to a comprehensive content library 📚

Applications are now open for the 3rd edition. Click the banner below to explore the program and apply.

Click here to apply now 👩‍💻

Join our upcoming virtual roadshow to learn more about the Innovation Managers Executive Learning Program (IMELP) and what the program entails.

The session will include an engaging panel discussion exploring key takeaways from the program and how IMELP can support your journey as an innovation leader.

Session Details

📅 Date: 7 May 2026

⏰ Time: 3:00 PM WAT

💻 Venue: Zoom

Click the banner below to register your interest and be part of the session.

Click here to register now 🚀

Interested in learning more ahead of the webinar? We’ve outlined the key details below. An early bird offer is currently available for applications submitted by 5 June 2026 🚀

The Innovation Managers Executive Learning Program (IMELP) is an 8-week, module-based initiative by Hindsight Ventures, designed to equip professionals with the skills, knowledge, and tools required to build and manage effective Entrepreneurship Support Organisations (ESOs). In today’s fast-evolving innovation ecosystem, Innovation Managers play a critical role in connecting startups with key stakeholders, including incubators, accelerators, corporates, CVCs, and investors. IMELP is structured to support this role through sessions on ecosystem mapping, program design and management, startup selection and support, corporate innovation, and impact measurement. Participants are also prepared to take on mentorship and advisory roles with startups.

Across the first two cohorts, the program brought together ~30 professionals from 7+ countries, featured 40+ speakers from 17 countries, and delivered 100+ hours of learning across 32 sessions.

Applications are now open for the 3rd edition of IMELP ✨

Click the banner below to learn more about the early bird offer and apply.

Click Here to Learn More about IMELP ⭐

The IMELP 3rd Edition is here! This 8-week online program by Hindsight Ventures is built for aspiring innovation managers, ESO professionals, corporate innovation teams, and career changers looking to lead in the startup ecosystem.

What you’ll cover across 5 modules:

• Introduction to Innovation & Tech Ecosystems — an overview of how accelerators, incubators, and ESOs operate

• Startup Support Essentials — mentorship, funding pathways, and market access strategies

• Program Design & Management — cohort selection, curriculum planning, and evaluation frameworks

• Demo Days & Events — how to organize and run pitch events and workshops effectively

• Monitoring, Reporting & Impact Assessment — tools to measure and communicate the impact of innovation initiatives

Key Dates

• Applications Close: 31st July 2026

• Program Starts: 7th September 2026

Click Here to Learn More about IMELP 🚀

AFRISE Challenge 2026 – 1,300+ Applications Received ⚡

The application window for the AFRISE Challenge 2026 – 4th Edition is now officially closed.

🚀 We are thrilled to share that we received an overwhelming 1300+ applications from across the ecosystem. Our team is currently reviewing all submissions, and we will be announcing the selected cohort soon, stay tuned!

A big thank you to all the startups who applied, and to our partners and ecosystem enablers for the incredible support, shoutouts, and mentions throughout the process.

We truly appreciate being part of this growing innovation community.

FINCA Ventures Prize Competition – Applications Open

As part of our continued collaboration with ecosystem partners, Hindsight Ventures is pleased to highlight the FINCA Ventures Prize Competition, which is currently inviting applications from African entrepreneurs building innovative and scalable solutions. The initiative supports early-stage ventures leveraging technology and innovative business models to address challenges across sectors such as financial inclusion, agriculture, and healthcare.

Selected startups benefit from catalytic grant funding, mentorship, and access to global investor and partner networks, along with the opportunity to showcase their solutions on an international stage. The competition follows a structured selection process, with applications currently open and further stages including evaluation and finalist selection to follow.

Explore the opportunity and submit your application here:

Click here to apply now ⚡

Calling All African Entrepreneurs 🌍

As proud partners, we’re excited to share an incredible opportunity: Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) 2026 is now open for applications!

If you’re a founder building a business that makes a real impact, this is your chance to gain funding, mentorship, training, and global exposure. Ten outstanding finalists will share USD 1.5 million in unrestricted grant funding, receive mentorship from experienced leaders, and get featured across major media platforms.

Who can apply?

• African entrepreneurs or those of African descent

• Founders/co-founders running a business for 3+ years

• Businesses headquartered in Africa and creating real impact

Applications close on 28 April 2026. Don’t miss out!

Apply now or nominate your friends 🚀

🌟Join us today at 3:00 PM WAT for an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session and Alumni Talk on the AFRISE Challenge 2026.

Curious about the program and whether it’s the right fit for you? This interactive session is designed to provide clarity and answer your questions directly.

During the session, you will have the opportunity to:

• Ask questions about the AFRISE Challenge to the organising team

• Hear directly from an alumnus about their journey, impact, and key lessons

• Gain clarity on the expectations, opportunities, and benefits of participating

Session Details

🗓 Date: 13 March 2026

⏰ Time: 3:00 PM WAT

💻 Zoom

Click here to RSVP

Hack for Health Equity – Applications Open Until 15 March

Our partners are currently inviting applications for Hack for Health Equity, an international public health–focused hackathon bringing together students, early-career researchers, and young professionals to develop scalable solutions addressing global health challenges.

Participants will work on solutions across areas such as public health, mental health, media for health, and obesity, with a focus on strengthening health systems and improving population-level outcomes.

The hackathon will take place 27–29 March 2026, and selected teams will gain exposure to global health leaders, mentoring opportunities, and the chance to present their work at international platforms.

Applications close on 15 March 2026, and participants can register individually or as teams.

Click here to Apply NOW!

🌟 JOIN US on Friday, 13th March for the AMA (Ask Me Anything) + Alumni Talk

Curious about the AFRISE Challenge 2026? This interactive session is designed to give you direct insights and answers.

Join us for an open conversation where you can:
● Ask questions about the AFRISE Challenge to the organising team
● Hear directly from an alumni about their journey, impact, and lessons learned
● Gain clarity on expectations, opportunities, and benefits of participating

🚀 Don’t miss out!
🗓 Date: 13th March 2026
⏰ Time: 3:00 PM WAT onwards

Click here to RSVP 👨‍💻

The AFRISE Challenge provides an opportunity for high potential African youth and student entrepreneurs to rise up in their entrepreneurial journey, and contribute to local and regional economic development by becoming job creators.

Concordia University and Hindsight Ventures have partnered for this program, with a central theme focusing on how youth entrepreneurs can help “African” economies to “Rise”.

The program is aimed at 18 - 35 year old African youth. We are looking for applications from Nigeria, Uganda, Morocco, Kenya, Rwanda, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire & Senegal. AFRISE seeks to identify young innovators and entrepreneurs who have a scalable idea to solve a mass challenge.

We are looking for enterprising youth (as individuals or teams) who are solving for, but not limited to below:

• 💰 Financial Services

• 🎓 Education

• ❤️ Healthcare

• 🌍 Environment

• 🌾 Agriculture

• 📡 Telecommunications

• ⚡ Energy / Utility

• 🎨 Arts & Creativity

Click the banner below to learn more about AFRISE Challenge 2026. If you are an entrepreneur from 🇰🇪 🇺🇬 🇷🇼 🇸🇳 🇲🇦 🇳🇬 🇬🇭 🇨🇮, this is your opportunity to build Africa’s next big thing.

Click Here to Learn More 🚀

MTIC Acceleration Program 2026: Highlights from the Demo Days

The MTIC Acceleration Program 2026 Demo Days marked the culmination of a three-month accelerator supporting high-potential Ugandan startups. Two Demo Days were held on 25 February at Endiro Academy and 26 February at Golden Tulip Hotel, showcasing 20 growth-stage startups from Cohorts 2 and 3.

The first event highlighted seven agribusiness startups, Urban Greens, Delizi Africa, Climavault, KisoFresh, Krystal Ice, AxiomZorn, and RWETech, reflecting agriculture’s central role in Uganda’s economy. The second Demo Day featured startups across fintech, healthtech, edtech, climate tech, logistics, and enterprise solutions. Across both events, 17 startups pitched to 210 attendees, including 10+ investors and corporates, sparking new partnerships and investment discussions.

The MTIC Acceleration Program Demo Days marked an exciting milestone for these founders and their ventures.

As they continue to grow and scale their solutions, we look forward to seeing their impact unfold across Uganda and beyond. 🇺🇬🚀

Bringing together leaders from academia, technology, and innovation ecosystems across Africa and beyond, this panel will share powerful insights on how collaboration and strong ecosystems can accelerate Africa’s startup growth and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Join us to gain valuable perspectives on how partnerships and ecosystem building are shaping the future of African entrepreneurship.

Meet our distinguished panelists for today's AFRISE Challenge 2026 Webinar:
• Lebohang Likhojane, Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct
• Yaw Adu-Gyamfi, Ghana Hubs Network
• Hawa Mariam Keita, Concordia University
• Grayson Julius, iPF Softwares
• Lamiaa Beddi, UM6P - University Mohammed VI Polytechnic

Complete your registration by 2:00 PM WAT to receive the Zoom link.

Register Now!

Following the success of the 3 editions (90 Startups supported), we are excited to launch the 4th edition of AFRISE Challenge, an initiative by Concordia University in partnership with Hindsight Ventures. This time spanning 8 African Nations!

🌍 We are pleased to welcome three new participating countries this year, 🇷🇼 Rwanda, 🇬🇭 Ghana, and 🇨🇮 Côte d’Ivoire — joining 🇳🇬 Nigeria, 🇺🇬 Uganda, 🇲🇦 Morocco, 🇰🇪 Kenya, and 🇸🇳 Senegal from the original five participating nations.

🌟AFRISE Challenge is built around a powerful vision, empowering youth entrepreneurs to help African economies RISE. The program offers high-potential African youth entrepreneurs:

✅ A structured 4 - weeks Venture Development Bootcamp (virtual)
✅ Mentorship, access to partners and investors
✅ International exposure opportunities
✅ Technology Credits

This is your chance to elevate your startup journey and become part of Africa’s next generation of change-makers.

Click the banner below to learn more and apply to AFRISE Challenge 2026.

Click here to learn more 🚀

You are invited to join a panel discussion titled “Enabling Entrepreneurship Ecosystems for Youth in Africa”, followed by an overview of AFRISE Challenge 2026.

Webinar Details
Date: Tuesday, 3 March 2026
Time: 3:00 PM WAT
Venue: Zoom

Agenda
3:00 PM WAT – Welcome Remarks
3:15 PM WAT – Panel Discussion: Enabling Entrepreneurship Ecosystems for Youth in Africa
4:00 PM WAT – Overview of AFRISE Challenge 2026 and Q&A

We look forward to your participation.

Click here to RSVP for the Webinar 👩‍💻

Shortlisted for the 2025 Sustainability Education Action Award by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, AFRISE Challenge ranked among the top 20% of over 1,600 global submissions, an acknowledgement of its role in strengthening entrepreneurship ecosystems across Africa.

JICA’s Uganda Office has been actively advocating, supporting and strengthening Uganda’s startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem through structured programming and interventions, across the startup value chain. 🇺🇬 🤝

In continuation of these efforts, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, are now co-hosting a one-day event - Uganda SOZO Summit 2025, for unlocking Uganda’s Startup Ecosystem Potential - by creating opportunities for collaboration.

Implemented by Hindsight Ventures, Uganda SOZO Summit 2025 will bring together a wide range of stakeholders from within Uganda, as well as, from regional and other high-growth markets in Africa. 🌍

The day-long showcase event will comprise:

• Keynotes

• Fireside Chats

• Workshops

• Galaxy of Stars - Demo Stage

• 30 Startups Pods

• Enterprise& Investor Connect Marketplace

• CXO Roundtable & Dinner

Whether you’re looking to strike new commercial deals, build brand awareness or forge new partnerships, Uganda SOZO Summit 2025 will bring together the relevant industry stakeholders.

📆 Date: Friday 28th November, 2025
⏰ Time: 8:00 am onwards
📍 Venue: National ICT Innovation Hub, Nakawa

Click here to RSVP 🇺🇬🤝

On October 14, we officially launched the MTIC Accelerator Program for Growth-Stage Startups, an initiative by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC), with Africa Asia Investment and Consulting (AAIC) as JICA’s Startup Ecosystem Advisor, and proudly implemented by Hindsight Ventures.

This 3-month program is designed to boost investor readiness, foster cross-industry collaboration, and support market expansion for Uganda’s most promising growth-stage startups across FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, ICT, Mobility, Consumer Business, and Agriculture.

Here’s a look at what’s been happening so far:

Immersive Corporate Visits: Our startups visited MTN Uganda, MTN MoMo, and Roke Telkom to learn first-hand about their growth journeys, business models, and innovations that have driven scale in Uganda. These visits also opened doors for strategic collaborations, especially between FinTech startups and MTN MoMo, exploring real opportunities for partnership and integration.

Investor Readiness Mentorship: Through 1-on-1 mentorship sessions with leading venture capitalists, including Michelle Mboha (Inua Capital), Melbourne Nyamadzawo, FMVA (Renew Capital), Bunmi Akinyemiju (Greenhouse Capital Africa), Melissa Tickle (Finca Ventures), Peter Clinton (Bid Capital) startups received tailored guidance on refining their investment strategy, sharpening their pitch, and structuring for sustainable growth.

Global Perspective on Growth: We also brought in international mentors such as Snehar Shah CFA (Hiring), Alaya Bettaieb , HILLARY OONGE CPA who shared invaluable insights from the global startup ecosystem, helping founders understand what growth strategies have worked in other markets, and how to adapt them for Uganda and beyond.

1:1 Anchor Mentorship: Each founder has been paired with an Anchor Mentor who will meet with them monthly to provide tailored guidance and support for their business growth. The mentors include: Chirag Savla Ajay Ramasubramaniam Folarin Oreoluwa Aiyegbusi Andrew David Herweg

International Mentors Visit: We hosted two international mentors who conducted one-on-one sessions with the founders, providing guidance on scaling and strengthening their businesses. The mentors included Prasanth K (UM6P, Morocco) and Keo Sar ( Investor and Mentor, Serbia)

Technology for Scale: In partnership with iPF Softwares, each startup underwent a technical assessment of their technology stack to ensure their platforms are scalable, secure, and investor-ready, a crucial step in preparing for regional and global expansion.

Peer Learning & Inspiration: Founders also engaged with Rob Sanford (SafeBoda), Dr. Cornelius Kalenzi, learning from their real-world experiences of scaling companies in Africa. And in a Book Experts AMA with Jumanne Mtambalike, the cohort reflected on lessons in leadership, innovation, investing and resilience.

You’re Invited: MTIC Cohort Tanzania Immersion Cocktail Reception 🇹🇿

As part of the MTIC Acceleration Program for Growth-Stage Startups, our cohort will be visiting Tanzania and Rwanda next week for an Immersion Program.

A dynamic group of 10 high-growth Ugandan startups will be in Tanzania from 16–19 November 2025, exploring partnerships, markets, and investment opportunities.

To mark this visit, we are delighted to invite you to a Cocktail Reception hosted in collaboration with the Tanzania Startup Association (TSA) — an evening designed to connect local ecosystem stakeholders, foster meaningful conversations, and promote regional startup collaboration across East Africa.

📅 Date: Monday, 17 November 2025
🕠 Time: From 17:30 onwards
📍 Venue: Onomo Hotel, Dar es Salaam

Click here to RSVP

📅 Join us next week on Tuesday, 14th October, for the official launch event.
The program offers an unparalleled opportunity for startups to expand into regional and global markets.

At the event, we will officially unveil:
Cohort 2: Consumer Tech, Fintech, ICT & Mobility
Cohort 3: Agritech, Agribusiness & Health-tech

🎯 Event Highlights:
- Introduction to the MTIC Accelerator Program and Partners
- Panel Discussion & Fireside Chat
- Cohort Announcement
- Networking opportunities over breakfast and lunch

If this sounds like something you’d love to be part of, here’s your chance! Join us for the MTIC Acceleration Program for Growth-Stage Startups in Uganda — Launch Event happening this Tuesday! 🚀 Click the banner below to register now!

RSVP Here for the Launch Event 🇺🇬

Sounds exciting? There’s more! 🎉 Check out our incredible lineup of panelists who’ll be leading an insightful discussion on powering Uganda’s growth-stage startup ecosystem.

And for the final reveal! 🔥 We’re hosting an exciting Fireside Chat featuring incredible founders as they share their insights on ‘Accelerating Uganda’s Growth-Stage Startup Ecosystem: A Founders’ Perspective.’ Hear directly from the visionaries who are shaping Uganda’s startup landscape!

JICA and MTIC - KAIZEN Training Session for Startups 📊

JICA and MTIC are hosting a three-part online KAIZEN Training Series designed to help startups enhance efficiency, quality, and innovation through small, actionable improvements.

Startups will learn how to:

• Streamline operations and manage time effectively

• Enhance quality to deliver better customer experiences

• Foster innovation by building a culture of adaptability and continuous growth

🗓️ Session Dates:

• Oct 15, 2025: Basics & Concepts of KAIZEN

• Nov 5, 2025: Practical KAIZEN Activities

• Dec 3, 2025: Mindsets & Behaviors to Sustain KAIZEN

💰 Cost: Free
🔗 Registration: Scan the QR code on the image to join