UK-Kenya Tech Hub Startup-SME Linkage Program 2.0 Application Guide
Applications are open for the UK-Kenya Tech Hub Startup-SME Linkage Program 2.0. Metta in partnership with the UK-Kenya Tech Hub presents the Startup-SME linkage program 2.0 aimed at providing tech startups direct linkages to SMEs which fall under their target customers for a chance to secure a commercial deal.
The program will require selected startups to present/demo their solutions to SMEs in a digital live marketplace for a partnership or commercialization deal.
In this program, they define a startup and SMEs through the following lens:
- An SME is a self-sustaining company with a monthly turnover of over Ksh. 500,000, and has existed for over 5 years. The SME could operate in tech or non-tech front but generally has more stability through a proven business model and well-known products to known customers in known local markets.
- A startup, on the other hand, would have existed less than 5 years, and characterized by a “move fast, break things” culture and predominantly operate in the tech front with the sole goal of innovating above market standards.
Benefits
- 4 free masterclasses modeled on the Deal Making Design Framework.
- Access to practical templates for deal-making.
- Participation in the Deal Rooms with potential clients and service providers.
- Business feature on the Metta and UK-Kenya Tech networks.
Eligibility
Startup: They are looking for post-revenue startups with practical solutions that can help SMEs solve their existing problems. Female-led startups are highly encouraged to apply.
Startups Criteria:
- Should be open to collaboration.
- Should be a registered entity.
- Must be a tech-driven startup.
- Should have active users on their platform: demonstrate use cases.
- Offer valid solutions in the thematic areas identified.
SMEs: They are looking for SMEs that are open for a commercial and/or partnership deal with innovative post-revenue tech startups operating in verticals such as HR, customer experience, digital marketing, agriculture, health, logistics, clean energy, e-commerce among others. Sample challenges could include: disrupted sales, logistics inefficiencies, poor website engagement and e-commerce conversion rate, etc.
SME Criteria:
- Proof of product adoption in the market.
- Should be a registered entity.
- Willingness to adopt and leverage tech solutions.
- Willingness to open its network to startups.
Application
For more information, visit UK-Kenya Tech Hub.