Innovation: 1.3 Billion FCFA for Cameroonian Startups 🚀

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Cameroon is committing to promoting entrepreneurship through the program “Start-up 237: 100 Projects Made in Cameroon.” With a budget of 1.3 billion FCFA, this initiative aims to support young and women entrepreneurs across key sectors. From promising advancements to persistent challenges, here’s a detailed overview.

Supporting entrepreneurship 🚀

Launched in 2024, the “Start-up 237: 100 Projects Made in Cameroon” program seeks to boost Cameroon’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Backed by a 1.3 billion FCFA budget, the objective is to support 100 startups over two years by providing funding, mentorship, and technical assistance.

So far, 55 startups have already benefited from 400 million FCFA in funding. These projects span diverse sectors such as health, agriculture, digital technologies, and education. This diversity reflects Cameroon’s innovative potential, with initiatives coming from all regions, including crisis-affected areas like the Northwest and Southwest.

Tangible results and quality support 📊

The program goes beyond funding. To date:

• 46 mentors have been recruited to guide the startups.
• 20 incubator managers have received specialized training.
• 700 coaching sessions, both online and in-person, have strengthened entrepreneurs’ capacities.

Additionally, 102 support plans have been developed, offering tailored guidance to meet the specific needs of young businesses.

Challenges to overcome 🌍

Despite these advancements, certain challenges remain:

• Geographical inequalities: The East region has only seen one supported project.
• Logistical delays: Equipment essential for some projects has been slow to arrive, hindering their implementation.

Professor Alain Kiyindou, Director of AUF for Central Africa, emphasized the importance of addressing these delays to ensure the program’s success.

A promising future for innovation in Cameroon 🌟

In March 2025, a mid-term evaluation will assess the program’s progress and refine strategies. The ultimate goals remain clear:

• Support the creation of resilient businesses.
• Enhance the employability of young people in a country where unemployment is a pressing issue.
• Contribute to sustainable development through innovative projects.

This program could serve as a model for other African nations, combining digital transformation and economic growth.

What About You ?🤔
What do you think about the impact of this program on Cameroon’s economy? Which sectors do you believe deserve more attention? Share your thoughts in the comments !