Young entrepreneurs in Kenya can apply for the 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Start-Up Fund, an initiative by Aiducation International that supports people under 30 who want to turn business ideas into viable ventures.\n<\/p>\n
The programme offers selected entrepreneurs seed funding of up to US$1,000, mentoring and access to a network of entrepreneurs and industry professionals.\n<\/p>\n
Applications for Stage 1 in Kenya close on November 30, 2026.\n<\/p>\n
About the 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs Programme<\/p>\n
The 1,000 Young Entrepreneurs initiative aims to help young people develop entrepreneurial skills and turn early-stage ideas into businesses.\n<\/p>\n
The programme\u2019s Stage 1 track supports entrepreneurs who have a business idea or an early-stage minimum viable product (MVP). Participants can develop their ideas, test them in the market and learn how to build a business.<\/p>\n
Aiducation International reports that its programme has supported startups through funding, coaching and entrepreneurial development.\n<\/p>\n
Who Can Apply?<\/p>\n
The current Stage 1 call is for applicants who:\n<\/p>\n
Are younger than 30 years old when applying.
\nAre residents of Kenya.
\nCan communicate fluently in English.
\nHave a business idea they want to develop into a viable venture.
\nAre willing to receive feedback and improve their idea.
\nAre not employed by Aiducation International or its affiliated partners.<\/p>\n
Applicants who have participated in an entrepreneurship course, workshop or programme are preferred.\n<\/p>\n
Please note: This intake is for Kenya residents. Entrepreneurs living in Nigeria or other countries are not eligible for this specific call.\n<\/p>\n
What Kind of Business Ideas Are Eligible?<\/p>\n
There is no fixed sector or theme for the current Stage 1 competition. Applicants can propose innovative business ideas addressing commercial, social or community needs.\n<\/p>\n
Applicants should be able to explain:<\/p>\n
The problem their business will solve.
\nThe product or service they want to develop.
\nTheir intended customers.
\nThe market opportunity.
\nWhat makes their idea different.
\nHow they plan to develop the business.<\/p>\n
The programme welcomes early-stage ideas, so applicants do not necessarily need an established business with significant sales.\n<\/p>\n
What Does the Programme Offer?
\nSeed Funding<\/p>\n
Selected Stage 1 entrepreneurs can receive up to US$1,000 to help launch and develop their ventures.\n<\/p>\n
Mentorship<\/p>\n
Participants receive guidance from experienced professionals who can help them improve their business ideas and entrepreneurial skills.\n<\/p>\n
Practical Business Development<\/p>\n
The programme supports participants in developing a minimum viable product, testing their ideas and learning from market feedback.\n<\/p>\n
Networking<\/p>\n
Participants can connect with other entrepreneurs, mentors and professionals through the programme\u2019s network.\n<\/p>\n
Application Requirements<\/p>\n
Applicants should prepare the following documents:<\/p>\n
Identification: A valid national identity card or passport.
\nEntrepreneurship certificate: Proof of participation in an entrepreneurship course, workshop or programme, where applicable.
\nTwo-minute video: Introduce yourself, explain your motivation for starting the business and describe your vision.
\nBusiness plan: A maximum of two pages, using your own format or the template provided by the programme.<\/p>\n
The application form also asks for personal details, contact information, startup name, weekly time commitment and whether you are applying individually or as part of a team.\n<\/p>\n
Applicants should ensure all required documents are included, as incomplete applications may not be accepted.\n<\/p>\n
Application Deadline<\/p>\n
The deadline for the current Stage 1 competition in Kenya is November 30, 2026.\n<\/p>\n
How to Apply<\/p>\n
Interested entrepreneurs can complete the application through the official programme website.\n<\/p>\n