Hanga Weekly Roundup EP 35
Hanga PitchFest
The Largest in-person technology event in Rwanda designed to ignite & inspire innovation
Industry Insights
The Recap of the 14th Edition of Fintech Friday
The 14th Edition of Fintech Friday took place recently, focusing on fostering connections that promote financial technology inclusion. This event highlighted the return of Fintech Hub, an initiative designed to support fintech startups in enhancing their capabilities and accessing resources in Rwanda and beyond.
Held just 16 days ahead of the much-anticipated Inclusive FinTech Forum 2024, this edition of Fintech Friday served as a platform to discuss the critical role of the Inclusive Fintech Forum in advancing economic inclusion and the sustainable development of the fintech sector.
Participants engaged in discussions that underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in the financial technology landscape. The emphasis on building connections was particularly relevant, as it aligns with the broader goals of the fintech community to create an inclusive financial ecosystem.
For those who have not yet registered for Inclusive FinTech Forum 2024, there is still time to secure your spot. Registration is available through the Inclusive Fintech Forum's official website.
The insights shared during this event are expected to pave the way for meaningful advancements in the fintech industry, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity and sustainable growth in financial services.
Applications Open for Rwanda's Premier Textile Innovation Program
Fabricademy is a? 6 months multidisciplinary, hands-on program that explores the intersection of digital fabrication, textiles, and biology. It focuses on applying new technologies to the textile industry, covering areas like ecodesign, biodesign, smart textiles, and digital fabrication while emphasizing the human-technology-environment relationship. This program, part of the broader FabLab Rwanda ecosystem, focuses on equipping participants with the skills necessary to thrive in the evolving textile industry through the application of advanced technologies.
FABRICADEMY is not just about individual skill development; it also aims to create a ripple effect within the community. By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, the program seeks to inspire a new generation of leaders in the textile sector who can address local and global challenges.
FABRICADEMY operates within the FabLab Rwanda framework, which was established in 2016 to support hardware innovators. The lab provides participants with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, enabling them to engage in prototyping and product development using advanced digital fabrication tools. In addition to the technical resources, the program fosters a collaborative environment where participants can network and build connections that may lead to future partnerships and projects. Expert mentorship is also a key component of FABRICADEMY, with experienced professionals guiding participants through the complexities of the textile industry, helping them refine their skills and achieve their goals.
For those interested in joining this initiative, applications are currently open. This is an excellent opportunity for innovators and fashion enthusiasts to be part of a movement that is set to redefine the future of textiles in Rwanda and beyond. Apply here: Fabricademy Apply.
We-Elevate Program Launched to Empower Women-Led Businesses
In an exciting move, the We-Elevate program was launched on Wednesday, August 14th, 2024, with the aim of empowering and equipping women-led businesses with the tools they need to thrive in the digital economy. The program, which is now in its second day, has already generated a lot of buzz in the entrepreneurial community.
We-Elevate is a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to address the unique challenges faced by women-led businesses in the digital age. By providing access to resources, training, and mentorship, the program aims to help women entrepreneurs overcome barriers and achieve their full potential.
Participants in the We-Elevate program can look forward to a variety of benefits designed to support their entrepreneurial journey. These include personalized mentorship from industry experts, workshops and training sessions focused on digital marketing, e-commerce, and other essential business skills. The program also provides valuable networking opportunities with other women entrepreneurs, as well as potential access to funding and investment opportunities to help grow their businesses.
领英推荐
If you're a woman entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level, now is the time to apply for the We-Elevate program. The application process is simple and can be completed online at https://forms.office.com/r/L3gGpAvLBa.
The deadline for applications is August 31st, 2024, and the program organizers have promised to share feedback on all applications by September 6th, 2024. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your business and join a community of like-minded women who are changing the face of entrepreneurship.
Startup Spotlight
Meet Smart Ikigega: A technology startup revolutionizing Agriculture in Rwanda with Digital Solutions.
Smart Ikigega is an innovative startup dedicated to transforming the agricultural landscape through the integration of digital technology. By decentralizing harvest data, providing financial services, and facilitating market connections, Smart Ikigega aims to create a more efficient, connected, and financially stable farming community across Africa. Through its comprehensive range of services, the startup is empowering farmers and contributing to the growth of the agricultural sector in Rwanda and beyond.
Services Offered:
Smart Ikigega is a vital player in Rwanda's agricultural transformation. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and focusing on data decentralization, market access, and financial services, Smart Ikigega is empowering farmers to thrive in the digital age. The startup is not only enhancing the livelihoods of farmers but also contributing to the overall growth of the agricultural sector in Africa.
Connect with Smart Ikigega to learn more about their mission and impact on Rwanda's agricultural future: https://www.smartikigega.com/.
Expert Opinion
"In entrepreneurship, it's not just about having a great idea; it's about creating real value for your customers. If they believe in you and are willing to pay for your solution, that’s when you know you’re on the right track." - Remy Muhire, Co-founder of Pindo, What I’m building Podcast.
Hanga Quiz:
What does the acronym "SRH" stand for in the context of the Hanga Pitchfest program?
A. Sustainable Resource Handling
B. Sexual and Reproductive Health
C. Social Responsibility Hub
D. Strategic Research Hub