Health startups in Africa have been invited to apply for the Innovate For Life Fund 2018. The Innovate for Life Fund aims to invest in African health entrepreneurs to accelerate home-grown health solutions for the African market. It offers African health sector-specific support: knowledge, network and access to funding. This is combined with business coaching by an experienced fund management organization.
In 2018, the fund will offer a health-specific 4-month accelerator embedding a maximum of six talented entrepreneurs. The accelerator will combine virtual and in-residence interactions at Amref Africa headquarters in Nairobi. The entrepreneurs will enjoy the support of Amref Health Africa’s facilities and their extensive health network in addition to tailored business coaching by Grassroots Business Fund.
In January 2019, a maximum of three entrepreneurs will be invited to develop a partnership with Amref Health Africa, which will offer follow up support and joint outreach to investors both in Africa and worldwide.
What do we offer?
- The opportunity to develop your proposition in a strategic partnership with Africa’s leading health organisation;
- A tailor-made, health sector specific training and mentoring programme divided into two phases. Phase I: 8 weeks, 6 entrepreneurs. Phase II: 4 weeks with the top 3 entrepreneurs.
- In a small group of a maximum of 6 entrepreneurs;
- Guidance of an experienced international fund management organisation;
- Mentorship and coaching by experienced health and enterprise professionals.
- Access to key African stakeholders in the health sector;
- Access to an international network of donors, investors and (corporate) partners;
- The programs will choose up to three of the most promising enterprises to enter into a strategic partnership, which may include financial support and future
equity participation.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for passionate entrepreneurs with an innovative product or service that is already in the market and aims to improve primary health care in Africa. The solution must have proven successful in a smaller setting through verifiable traction, which we will support to scale. To stimulate home-grown innovation, the Innovate for Life Fund targets entrepreneurs based in Sub Saharan Africa countries and/ or with origins from Sub Sahara Africa.
A health panel and selection committee will vet the applicants and their decision will be final.
| Deadline for applications: | 15th June 2018 |
|---|---|
| Notification to winners: | By 15th August 2018 |
| Accelerator programme: | From September 17th, 2018 |
