WHAT IS THE ELEVATE INVESTMENT READINESS PROGRAM?
The ELEVATE Investment readiness program is an initiative by the 1Million Startups East Africa Chapter that will see the entrepreneurs review their business model, build their growth strategy and a credible investment case, use of design thinking, monitor and measure impact, learn about impact investing aligned with the SDGs, financial planning and organization meticulously and help them seek investment for their businesses after the training.It is a 3 modular program that will build capacity in budding entrepreneurs that want to attract the right capital for their businesses. All entrepreneurs go through an intense program and mindset-shifting experience, with personalized support from experienced entrepreneurs, mentors, coaches and content experts.
ELIGIBILITY & APPLICATION
You can apply for the program if you meet the following criteria:
You have aligned your business to at least 1 UN sustainable development goal that you are passionate about as a business action
Proof of concept completed with some revenue and customers
Your venture is legally incorporated in a country in the East African Region
You are a purpose-driven entrepreneur, working on a scalable solution that solves a real social challenge.
You are seeking to attract investment
Your business is between 1 year old and above
You will be committed to attending all the 3 modules
APPLICATION PROCESS
Application to the Elevate investment readiness Program is done by filling the online application through this LINK
We are now accepting applications for cohort 4 until July 1st.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so we recommend that you apply early.
ELEVATE INVESTMENT READINESS PROGRAM DETAILS
Module 1 (10th to 12th July) (Starts with Talent Assessment for the Entrepreneur)
Review of your business model, strategy and growth plan with real business cases
Introduction to impact investing aligned with the SDGs
Investment case part I: type of investment, valuation
Impact measurement for the SDGs
Pitch to peers, peer to peer learning (design thinking)
Thematic Mentor and coach matching
Team, Setting milestones for the program
Module 2 Meetup & working session (9th August)
Mentor and coach feedback
Working session (Business and Financial planning)
Module 3 (4th to 6th September)
Investor introductions
Simulation
Build your investment case – part 2: review shareholder structure, create a term sheet
PERSONALISED SUPPORT (20 HOURS):
Throughout the 3 modular program, you get access to our network of mentors, experts and resources that will change the trajectory of your business. The personalized development plan will enrich your business journey and meet your individual needs.
Impact tracking
Full participation and cooperation of the entrepreneur is required during and after the training period to up to date information on revenue, employees, SDG impact and other relevant data that would be useful in evaluation of the program until 24 months after the start of the program, by means filling our:
- Impact Tracking Sheet (bi-annually), and
- The ELEVATE investment readiness program member survey (annually).
GLOBAL IMPACT
Our program is geared to SDG entrepreneurs from East Africa that are solving real social challenges. The network of 1Million Startups global community and our multimedia platform gives them global exposure and access to global connections to mentors and investors.