A total of 86 innovators recently showcased their groundbreaking startups at Kenya’s Presidential Innovation Challenge and Award, an initiative designed to provide funding, mentorship, and technical support to emerging entrepreneurs. The challenge, organized by the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), serves as a critical platform for fostering homegrown solutions to some of the country’s most pressing challenges.
The Presidential Innovation Challenge and Award is a flagship program under the patronage of President William Ruto and is implemented by KeNIA. It is aimed at supporting startups at various stages of development—ranging from ideation and early-stage ventures to those in the growth phase—by providing them with the necessary resources to scale their solutions.
With a strong emphasis on national priorities, the program focuses on sectors such as agriculture and food security, manufacturing, affordable healthcare, digital transformation, and the gaming and entertainment industry. The recent pitch event, which took place over a week in Nakuru County, gave the selected innovators an opportunity to present their ideas before a panel of seasoned experts, investors, and policymakers. The judges provided critical feedback, helping the startups refine their business models and improve their market readiness.
As part of its commitment to strengthening Kenya’s innovation landscape, KeNIA has committed to offering de-risking grants of up to KES 5 million (approximately US$40,000) to the most promising startups. Beyond financial support, selected participants will also receive technical assistance through tailored incubation and acceleration programs, access to investor networks, and opportunities to showcase their solutions at local and international innovation exhibitions.
“KeNIA implements this initiative as a ‘special purpose’ vehicle to create a robust ecosystem of innovative startups ready for investment and commercialization,” said Dr. Tonny Omwansa, CEO of KeNIA.
The initiative underscores the Kenyan government’s broader strategy to position the country as a hub for technological advancement and entrepreneurial excellence, ensuring that local startups receive the resources and exposure needed to scale their impact both locally and globally.
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