Africa’s startup scene is buzzing with potential, and now Nairobi has been chosen as the hub for a brand-new wave of founder-focused programs.
Venture capital firm 500 Global, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has rolled out initiatives that will give entrepreneurs across the continent the tools, mentorship, and support they need to scale their businesses.
Nairobi to Host Three Major Programs
This year, Nairobi will take center stage by hosting three different programs designed to guide entrepreneurs at varying stages of their journey.
Whether you’re just sketching out your first big idea or already managing a growing startup, there’s a place for you. The programs include:
- Pre-Acceleration Academy (October 6–12): Tailored for founders at the very beginning of their journey, offering in-person guidance to sharpen ideas and set strong foundations.
- Sustainable Innovation Seed Accelerator: Focused on seed-stage businesses tackling sustainability challenges, helping them refine solutions and prepare for growth.
- Bootcamp for Accelerator Managers: Built for incubator leaders and innovation managers—especially those involved in UNDP’s timbuktoo initiative—this program provides the skills and strategies needed to better support Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Applications are officially open, giving founders and innovation leaders the chance to dive in right away.
UNDP’s Role in Driving Change
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has long been at the forefront of global efforts to end poverty, fight inequality, and confront climate change.
With its reach across 170 countries, UNDP works to deliver lasting solutions that empower both people and the planet.
By teaming up with 500 Global, it is strengthening Africa’s innovation pipeline with the hope of creating businesses that are not only profitable but also socially impactful.
500 Global’s Track Record
500 Global is no stranger to ambitious startups.
As a multi-stage venture capital firm, it has backed more than 5,000 founders from over 3,000 companies across 80+ countries.
Their portfolio includes over 35 unicorns valued above $1 billion and more than 150 companies worth $100 million or more.
With a team spread across 25+ countries, they’ve built a strong global presence while maintaining deep roots in local ecosystems.
A Longstanding Commitment to Africa
Africa has been on 500 Global’s radar for over a decade.
Their first investment on the continent came in 2011, and since then, they’ve supported over 100 African startups.
Some of their most notable African investments include Chipper Cash, Smile Identity, Stitch, Money Fellows, and Asaak.
Beyond putting capital into companies, 500 Global has played a key role in ecosystem development.
Working alongside partners like ITIDA in Egypt and GIZ, they’ve provided training, infrastructure, and resources that have already benefited more than 150 Egyptian founders since 2022.
What’s Ahead
With Nairobi hosting these programs, the future looks bright for African entrepreneurship.
From idea-stage founders to experienced accelerator managers, the opportunities are vast.
The collaboration between UNDP and 500 Global signals more than just investment—it’s about building sustainable, innovative businesses that can shape the future of Africa and beyond.
