Support for business development through the
WE-RISE! project

February 2024

The WE-RISE! project achieved a significant milestone on February 24th with its incubation and acceleration program launch in Kassala and Port Sudan. This initiative, supported by European Union funds and in collaboration with SAVANNAH Innovation Labs and MDF marks a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in Sudan.

Thanks to the WE-RISE project more than 𝟑𝟎𝟎 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐩𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐒𝐌𝐄𝐬 selected from a competitive pool of 𝟐,𝟑𝟓𝟏 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 will receive business development assistance. This selection process underscores the vast entrepreneurial potential present within Sudan.

In the weeks ahead, the chosen businesses will undergo comprehensive training sessions led by seasoned experts across six cohorts in each city. These modules will cover essential topics such as business planning, leadership, marketing, and finance, equipping participants with the necessary skills for sustainable growth. Moreover, personalised one-on-one mentoring sessions with industry professionals will refine the entrepreneurs’ strategies and enhance their capabilities in navigating the market landscape.

The culmination of this program will be 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐨 𝐃𝐚𝐲, where all selected businesses will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas. This event serves as a platform for participants to pitch their ventures and compete for funding from a pool of up to 𝟒𝟎𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐬, enabling them to scale their operations and drive positive change in their communities.

Through this transformative initiative, AICS Khartoum and all the WE-RISE! partners are committed to supporting the resilience and determination of Sudanese entrepreneurs. Together, we aim to cultivate a thriving ecosystem where innovation thrives, and inclusive growth becomes a reality.

Cover picture: AICS Khartoum