The East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) is inviting applications from youth and women entrepreneurs, innovators and enterprise-support practitioners for a three-day capacity-building programme in innovation, entrepreneurship and business development.
The training will select 160 participants across eight East African Community (EAC) Partner States, with 20 places available in each country.
About the Programme
EASTECO is implementing the initiative in partnership with the African Union Development Agency–NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) under the Creating Opportunities for Youth and Women in Africa (COYWA) Programme.
The training aims to strengthen business-management skills, improve enterprise sustainability and support entrepreneurs in developing practical strategies for business growth.
Participating Countries
Applications are open to eligible citizens or residents of:
- Burundi
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
Participants must apply for training in their respective countries.
Training Areas and Benefits
Selected participants will receive three days of practical training covering:
- Innovation and Business Development: Opportunity identification, customer discovery, value propositions and business-model development.
- Financial Management and Market Access: Costing, pricing, cash-flow planning, digital marketing and customer acquisition.
- Financing Readiness and Pitching: Business communication, financing opportunities, pitch development and preparation of 90-day enterprise action plans.
Participants will also benefit from practical coaching, peer learning and networking opportunities.
Training facilities, refreshments and lunch will be provided. Accommodation and daily subsistence allowances are not included.
Eligibility Criteria
- The programme targets youth entrepreneurs aged 15–35, women entrepreneurs and eligible enterprise-support practitioners.
- Applicants should own or participate in an existing enterprise, have a commercially promising business idea, or work directly in entrepreneurship support.
- They must demonstrate relevant training needs and be available to attend all three days in person.
Early-stage entrepreneurs are welcome; investment readiness is not required.
Training dates and venues will be communicated to successful applicants.
Important: This is a capacity-building programme, not a grant competition. Participation does not guarantee funding or future financial assistance.
