Denis Opudo
The FemBioBiz Accelerator Programme season one had 101 participants. The top three startups won funding award of R500, 000 and Slush trip to attend the biggest Finland startup events. The eligibility requires the entrepreneur to own a business with a net worth of R500,000 and above. Another condition for startups to participate in the programme is the possibility to double sales growth in the subsequent year. The FemBioBiz Accelerator initiative is currently open to all potential applicants. The programme targets bioscience-based business and female bio-entrepreneurs. This initiative will enable women based firms to access international market and as well as regional exposure. Innovative female students in biotechnology especially in nutrition and health are encouraged to apply. The successful startups stand a chance to win a cash prize of R300000, opportunity to attend the Slush events and mentorship.
Implementation of the second season of FemBioBiz Acceleration Programme scheduled in South Africa calls for partnership. The two main actors are Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) and Nepad’s Southern Africa Network for Biosciences (SANBio). The core purpose of the programme is to sharpen business skills and businesses acceleration in women-owned enterprises. Other roles constitute of development of leadership principles and financial support in the sector of biosciences. Countries of interest comprise of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Seychelles, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Namibia, and Zambia.
According to the Zvikomborero Tangawamira, BioFISA II programme manager, the programme creates a good learning environment and women empowerment. It also improves nutrition and health via science and technology. She added that women face challenges in bringing up families and participation in biotechnology initiatives. Despite the challenges, there are some women who take part in biotech enterprises. These categories of women act as good examples for other fellow colleagues. Irene Ochem noted that the SANBio initiative in South Africa region catalyzed bio-entrepreneurship among women.
The application is ongoing from 5th March to 20th April this year.
