Rinchi
TechInAfrica – Startup Uganda is initiating the 2019 Kampala Innovation Week (KIW) that will take place on October 16th – 18th, 2019, at the Kololo Independence Grounds. The event is funded by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCFD), aiming at bringing together all key players and stakeholders in the Ugandan startup ecosystems.
By bringing all the key players, the organizers hope to increase Uganda’s profile in the startup space as well as provide opportunities for its startups to attract local and international investors and enable global partnership.
“This KIW is a demonstration that working together to build our startup ecosystem is possible and the benefits are immense,” said Richard Zulu, Founder of Outbox Hub and Chairperson at Startup Uganda during the press conference about the launching of KIW.
Zulu added that KIW is a platform all ecosystem enablers to start their journey on building knowledge, capital, networks, and infrastructures that they need to strive.
The 2019 KIW will bring together innovators, around innovators, investors, ecosystem enablers, government officials, and development partners to drive innovation in Uganda. It is also expected to be attended by officials from the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Furthermore, it will host selected innovators to showcase their products in a pitching competition in front of investors to win potential funding. Those interested in participating in the pitching contest, you can apply here. Only 20 startups will be selected to pitch at the event.
“UNCDF is working closely with the government to implement a strategy that will foster innovations through the existing tech-incubation hubs, as well as drive digital innovation in Uganda,” said Chris Luko, UNCDF Technical Specialist to Uganda.
“UNCDF’s support of this initiative is part of its inclusive innovation pillar and seeks to convene and engage Uganda’s startup ecosystem. This is turn leads to more inclusive innovation business models and services to be tested and deployed at scale in various sectors. Thus, contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs).”
Source: pctechmag.com
