The Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) has firmly established itself as one of the premier startup pitch competitions and support programs globally. Since its inception in 2019, EWC has grown exponentially, engaging over 370,000 entrepreneurs from more than 200 countries. This year, the Entrepreneurship World Cup Uganda 2024 stood out as a pivotal moment for Ugandan entrepreneurs, highlighting groundbreaking innovations and fostering an environment of entrepreneurial excellence.
Event Overview
The Entrepreneurship World Cup Uganda 2024 Grand Finale, held virtually on August 12, 2024, was a showcase of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. Moderated by Abid Weere, the event featured a distinguished panel of judges, including Hadijah Nankanja (Founder and CEO -Community Women's Enterprise Network Uganda), Rosemary Mutyabule (Director Business Advisory Services at Enterprise Uganda), and Iga Zinunula (Chairperson GEN Uganda). The competition format was meticulously explained to the finalists, setting the stage for an intense and exciting series of presentations.
Finalists and Presentations
The finalists delivered compelling pitches that spanned a diverse range of sectors and innovative solutions:
- Mpampe Digital Services Ltd presented an advanced crowdfunding platform, designed to overcome existing challenges in the crowdfunding landscape. Co-founder Ronnie Atuhaire highlighted the platform's multilingual support, AI-driven features, and focus on transparency, aiming to become Africa's largest crowdfunding hub.
- TWAVE Limited introduced their automated solar fish feeder, featuring real-time monitoring and AI optimization for improved fish farming practices. The presentation detailed their collaboration with Plan X Aquaculture and their plans for reducing production costs and enhancing revenue.
- Uganics Repellents wowed the judges with their malaria prevention solution, utilizing everyday products like soap and creams. With significant impact on 3.2 million people in Uganda, Uganics Repellents outlined their plans for regional expansion and continued impact growth.
- One Stock Limited, represented by Clara Asiimwe, showcased their investment management approach, focusing on sustainable business practices and significant contributions to Ugandan businesses and smallholder farmers.
- Helton Traders Limited, led by Munyasa Hellen, aimed to address plastic waste by manufacturing sustainable polyester fabric sewing threads from recycled plastic bottles. The presentation emphasized market opportunities, environmental benefits, and the potential to transform the textile industry.
- Patapia, represented by Rebecca Patapia, discussed their efforts in financing and supporting refugees in Uganda, with plans to scale their operations to new camps and enhance their financial services.
Technical Challenges
Despite the innovative presentations, the event faced several technical difficulties, including issues with screen sharing and audio disruptions. These challenges impacted the flow of the meeting and presented hurdles for both presenters and judges. Efforts to resolve these issues were made, but they highlighted the need for continued improvement in virtual event management.
Winners and Next Steps
After a rigorous evaluation, Uganics Repellents emerged as the winner of the Entrepreneurship World Cup Uganda 2024, thanks to their impactful malaria prevention solution. Mpampe Digital Services Ltd secured the runner-up position with their pioneering crowdfunding platform.
Both Uganics Repellents and Mpampe are now advancing to the EWC 250 cohort. This prestigious group will compete for a spot in the EWC Top 100, with a chance to represent Uganda in Riyadh at the EWC Global Finals from November 5-9, 2024. The winners of the global finals will receive an all-expense-paid trip to pitch their ventures on an international stage, including a Visa, flight, and accommodations.
Celebrating Innovation
The Entrepreneurship World Cup Uganda 2024 has been a testament to the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Uganda. The finalists demonstrated exceptional creativity and commitment to addressing pressing issues through innovative solutions. Their efforts underscore the critical role of entrepreneurship in driving social impact and economic development.
As we look forward to the next stages of the EWC journey, we are excited to see how these talented entrepreneurs will continue to advance and make a difference on a global scale. We extend our congratulations to all the finalists and participants, and we eagerly anticipate the next steps in this remarkable competition.
About EWC
The Entrepreneurship World Cup is more than just a competition; it is a comprehensive support program offering coaching, training, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs worldwide. With $4 million in cash prizes, $150 million in in-kind prizes, and a robust network of mentors and supporters, EWC aims to propel entrepreneurs toward achieving their growth objectives and making a positive impact.
A special shoutout to our amazing partners who make this possible:
- Geuka Africa (National Coordinator)
- Enterprise Uganda (Supporting Partner)
- KII Impact (Supporting Partner)
