Title: E4Impact Accelerator launches the 2nd Cohort of Impact Entrepreneurs!

Share This Post

In recent years the Kenyan economy has witnessed the boost of micro, small and medium enterprises as the strategic drivers of the development of a dynamic and modern private sector. This is also reflected in the rich panorama of initiatives in the private sector promoted by the international development partners.

To boost the economic growth of the Kenyan economy by strengthening enterprises across various sectors, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation funded the launch of the E4Impact Accelerator Program in 2018. The E4Impact Accelerator has been committed to accelerating the selected enterprises in Kenya through a customized training itinerary, provision of professional services, market linkages, coaching and mentorship by successful Italian firms within the same sector as well providing them with seed grants based on business growth milestones (up to Kshs 1.5 M per enterprise). The first cohort of 20 enterprises have successfully completed the program and there has been business growth –  increase of revenue, brand & visibility, market linkages with Italy, closed deals with external investors and much more.

E4Impact launched the 2nd call for the Accelerator Program and received 230 applications. After a rigorous selection process, the best 20 impact entrepreneurs were selected to join the 12-month program to be accelerated and receive business services.

The unveiling and launch ceremony of the 2nd Cohort of entrepreneurs took place at E4Impact offices on Thursday 13th of June 2019 from 9.30 am to 1:00 pm. The Chief Guest, H.E. Alberto Pieri reaffirmed that the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation continues to support the E4Impact Accelerator initiative not by chance, but in the framework of the long-standing Italian commitment to promote a more inclusive economic development in Kenya.  The Accelerator initiative launched by the E4Impact Foundation is fully aligned with and supporting the Kenya’s Big Four Agenda notably towards the creation of decent job opportunities for young people who are willing to invest their ideas, creativity and energies for the development of their communities and the country at large.

“In this regard the E4Impact reality is unique. It takes and incorporates the best of the Italian entrepreneurship, know-how and best practices aiming at promoting small and medium enterprises with high and positive social impact. On this occasion, I would like to commend the fundamental role played by the Cattolica University of Milan and the E4Impact Foundation.” – H.E. Alberto Pieri, Italian Ambassador to Kenya.

The 2nd cohort of impact entrepreneurs are mainly drawn from the sectors of Agribusiness, Manufacturing, Fashion & Design, Leather and Green & renewable energy, which are aligned with Kenya’s current Big Four Agenda and the Italian excellences.

The companies include: Mace Foods, Kenya Papaya Products, Thiba Coffee Millers, EcoHoldings, Mula Exports, Kenya Biogas Program, Nature’s Touch, Njambini Wool Crafters, COWA, GenePlus, Farmers Pride, Santana Africa, Bottle Logistics, Cecilia H& H, Bdelo Limited, Coast Clay Works, Horizon Business Ventures LTD, Pure Planet Recyclers ltd, Aprelle Duany and Wan Fam Clothing.

The E4Impact Foundation leverages over 9 + years in designing and implementing impactful entrepreneurship programs and providing business expertise in Training, Coaching and mentoring, Acceleration services and Partnerships & market linkages with European companies.

“By launching the Accelerator in Kenya, we are able to utilize the expertise gained from this market and scale to other African markets. This is to develop a solid partnership with existing accelerators in other African countries and offering them special links with: Italy and its excellences, International and national investors and E4Impact MBAs and Alumni.”

 

Mario Molteni, E4Impact CEO

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Get updates and learn from the best

More To Explore