About the program
FortiFWD is an impact-driven entrepreneurship program powered by AfriFORTIFIED HUB, designed to accelerate the growth of early-stage agri-food ventures in Kenya. The program supports youth-led businesses working across the agriculture and fishing sectors in Kisumu, Kakamega, Bungoma, and Busia, helping them turn bold ideas into market-ready, scalable, and sustainable solutions.
Grounded in AfriFORTIFIED’s expertise in gender-equity food systems and product innovation, FortiFWD offers a dynamic mix of technical assistance, mentorship, and access to investment readiness support. Entrepreneurs benefit from hands-on learning in product development, business modeling, market access, and commercialization strategies—complemented by tailored guidance from experienced mentors.
Through this program, AfriFORTIFIED continues its mission of mainstreaming inclusive, nutritious, and resilient food systems, combining R&D, market validation, and flexible financing opportunities via AfriFUND, its flagship investment platform.
FortiFWD is more than a program—it’s a launchpad for a new generation of agri-preneurs ready to transform local food systems from the ground up.
What are the requirements to join as an entrepreneur?
We’re looking for early-stage entrepreneurs ready to grow their agri-food ventures and create lasting impact in their communities.
To be eligible, you must:
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Be the founder or co-founder of a business in the agriculture or fishing sectors.
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Be based in Kenya, specifically in the regions of Kisumu, Kakamega, Bungoma, or Busia.
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Have an operational venture that addresses challenges in food production, processing, distribution, or sustainability.
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Be committed to participating fully in a structured online learning journey, including mentorship, workshops, and peer sessions.
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Be willing to dedicate a minimum of 8 hours per week to the program throughout its duration.
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Have access to a computer and a reliable internet connection.
Sign up
Deadline: 2025-09-15
Join as a mentor and help entrepreneurs in Africa achieve success!
We are looking for mentors who are committed to joining our incubation program. If you have a passion for entrepreneurship, have at least 5 years of professional experience and are committed to reviewing and monitoring your entrepreneur’s work before mentoring meetings, we want you to join us! We envision a fair, efficient and meritocratic society where innovation belongs to everyone. Sign up today and help Africa’s next generation of entrepreneurs succeed!
What requirements must you have to mentor?
We are seeking experienced, purpose-driven mentors to support the next generation of agri-preneurs in East Africa.
Ideal mentors will:
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Have expertise in agri-food systems, product development, entrepreneurship, investment readiness, circular economy, or digital innovation.
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Bring 5+ years of relevant experience in business development or supporting early-stage enterprises.
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Be affiliated with or have knowledge of USIU-Africa or the regional entrepreneurship ecosystem (a plus, but not mandatory).
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Be fluent in English and able to communicate effectively online.
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Be willing to dedicate at least 2 hours per week for a period of 4 months.
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Be empathetic, curious, and committed to youth empowerment and sustainable food systems.
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Have access to a computer and a stable internet connection.
Program Timeline
Start the hybrid incubation experience with mentoring sessions, working tools and structured development. You will have 5 months to complete the incubation cycle and develop your validated business plan.
- You will work weekly with your personal mentor in one-on-one sessions to go through the 8 business modules.
You will have the incubation team on hand at all times to answer any questions you may have. - You will finish the programme developing a business plan and executive summary ready to present to potential investors.
Do you have any questions about the program?
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