FAQs

Q: Can startups outside Rwanda apply?
A: Only tech-enabled startups based and registered in Rwanda are allowed to participate.

Q: How many years of operations should a startup not exceed to be eligible?
A: The eligibility status is granted only for startups that are less than five years old starting from the registration day.

Q: What are the application deadlines?
A: The application process is open from Oct 27 - Nov 15

Q: Can a tech startup with existing market traction apply?
A: Yes, tech startups with market traction are encouraged to apply. However startups should not have raised any venture capital except self-sourcing, angel investors, or family and friends. Startups that may have received grant funding from other incubator programs or hackathons are eligible

Q: Can startups that do not have a tech solution apply?
A: Only startups with tech-enabled solutions (hardware or software) or with the potential to scale through technology are allowed to apply.

Q: How will the winners be selected?
A: During the first round of evaluation, the top startups will be shortlisted by judges drawn from the startup and investor community scoring the startups based on a number of criteria.
The second round of evaluation will involve physical pitching sessions to a round of judges in 5 locations around Rwanda.
The top candidates will then be invited for a Bootcamp in Kigali whereby the top 5 companies will then be selected to pitch at the Kigali Arena on Dec 11

Q: Can I apply if I have an idea for a startup?
A: Unfortunately the minimum criteria for startups is to have a working / developed prototype and not just an idea

Q: Is the prize money a grant or equity?
A: The prize money is a grant