Impact Hub Kigali, in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP), is launching the third edition of the IGNITE Food Systems Challenge in Rwanda.
This initiative aims to empower refugee communities by fostering entrepreneurship and investment in ventures that enhance food systems, combat hunger, and elevate food security.
With a focus on serving refugee populations, this challenge seeks to address the livelihood needs of refugees in Rwanda through innovative solutions and support for business development.
Eligibility Criteria
Non-Refugee-Owned Businesses
- Businesses must directly impact refugees in Rwanda or seek to enhance their livelihoods.
- Must be registered in Rwanda with a minimum of 2 years of operations.
- Provision of RDB/RCA certificate.
- Must have a team of at least two full-time members dedicated to the business, with at least 50% of the founding or senior management team being Rwandan.
- Proof of revenues of at least RWF 5,000,000 for the full year of 2023.
- Key operations must exist in Rwanda.
Refugee-Owned Businesses
- Refugee owners must be registered in Rwanda.
- Must be registered in Rwanda with a minimum of 1 year of operations.
- Provision of RDB/RCA certificate.
- Must have a team of at least two full-time members dedicated to the business.
- Proof of revenues of at least RWF 2,000,000 for the full year of 2023.
- Key operations must exist in Rwanda.
Evaluation Criteria
The IGNITE Food Systems Challenge will evaluate applications based on the following criteria:
- Level of Innovation: Innovative solutions to food challenges.
- Impact: Strong impact on strengthening food systems.
- Financial Sustainability: Clear business model and financial sustainability.
- Level of Traction: Demonstrated impact and traction.
- Scalability: Potential for scalability.
- Team: Experience and commitment of the team to scale the solution.
Benefits for Selected Ventures
Selected ventures will receive the following benefits to support their growth:
- Up to $25,000 in grant funding.
- Tailored technical support from experts.
- Networking opportunities and access to events.
- Access to market and industry resources.
- Exposure to potential investors and funding opportunities.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed by WFP, their implementing partners, and external experts. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate traction and market validation.
The deadline for applications is June 23, 2024. Interested parties can apply through the provided link.
Conclusion
The IGNITE Food Systems Challenge presents an opportunity for entrepreneurs to make a tangible impact on refugee communities in Rwanda.
By addressing food challenges through innovation and business development, selected ventures can contribute to strengthening food systems and enhancing food security.
With support from Impact Hub Kigali, WFP, and other partners, these ventures have the potential to create sustainable solutions that empower refugees and transform livelihoods.
