Empowering Refugee Communities: The IGNITE Food Systems Challenge by Impact Hub Kigali and WFP
Impact Hub Kigali, in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP), is excited to announce the launch of the third edition of the IGNITE Food Systems Challenge. This initiative aims to empower refugee communities in Rwanda by addressing their livelihood needs and fostering entrepreneurship. The program focuses on ventures that enhance food systems, combat hunger, and elevate food security, with a special emphasis on benefiting refugee populations.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the IGNITE Food Systems Challenge
- Benefits of Participation
- Eligibility Requirements
- Selection Process
- Application Deadline
- How to Apply
Overview of the IGNITE Food Systems Challenge
Application Deadline: June 23, 2024
Grant Value: Up to USD 25,000
Location: Rwanda
Target Participants: Entrepreneurs
Sponsor: Impact Hub
Gender: Open to All
Benefits of Participation
Selected ventures will gain a range of benefits designed to support the scaling of their businesses, including:
- Up to USD 25,000 in grant funding
- 5-month tailored technical support from industry experts
- Networking opportunities and access to relevant events
- Access to market and industry resources
- Exposure to potential investors and funding opportunities
Eligibility Requirements
We are looking for dynamic and impactful businesses, including startups, MSMEs, and cooperatives operating in Rwanda, to join our program. Applicants should have commercially viable solutions aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of refugees. Eligible businesses must be registered in Rwanda and actively engaged in operations that either are owned by refugees or significantly benefit refugees.
For Non-Refugee-Owned Businesses:
- Must directly impact refugees in Rwanda or aim to enhance their livelihoods
- Registered business in Rwanda with at least 2 years of operations
- Provision of RDB/RCA certificate
- Team of at least two full-time members, including the founding team
- At least 50% of the founding or senior management team must be Rwandan
- Proof of revenues of at least RWF 5,000,000 for the full year of 2023
For Refugee-Owned Businesses:
- The refugee owner must be registered in Rwanda
- Registered business in Rwanda with at least 1 year of operations
- Provision of RDB/RCA certificate
- Team of at least two full-time members, including the founding team
- Proof of revenues of at least RWF 2,000,000 for the full year of 2023
Selection Process
The evaluation process will be based on the following criteria:
- Level of innovation in solving food challenges
- Impact on strengthening food systems
- Financial sustainability and a clear business model
- Demonstrated traction and impact
- Scalability potential
- Experience and commitment of the team
Applications will be reviewed by WFP, implementing partners, and external experts. Preference will be given to ventures that already show traction and market validation.
Application Deadline
June 23, 2024
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants should visit the Impact Hub website and navigate to the application page through the provided Typeform link. Follow these steps:
- Review the Eligibility Criteria: Ensure your venture meets the outlined eligibility criteria.
- Begin the Application: Click the ‘apply’ button to access and complete the application form.
- Submit Your Application: Fill out the application and submit it within an hour.
For more details, please visit the Impact Hub website.
