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Applications Now Open for HangaPitchFest: Empowering Tech-Driven Solutions in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH)
The HangaPitchFest initiative is officially welcoming applications for its transformative program aimed at empowering technology-driven startups that are addressing critical challenges in the field of sexual and reproductive health (SRH). This initiative provides a unique opportunity for innovative entrepreneurs to scale impactful solutions that promote healthier outcomes across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Launched in 2022 by the Government of Rwanda, HangaPitchFest was created as a platform to uncover and support tech-enabled startups capable of revolutionizing SRH services and access. The program focuses on harnessing the power of technology to overcome persistent barriers and improve the well-being of communities across the continent.
In 2023, the program successfully identified and supported pioneering ventures from 11 Sub-Saharan African nations. These selected startups received tailored business and technical guidance, helping them scale their innovations and amplify their societal impact. Through the support of the Hanga SRH initiative, 20 ventures collectively raised over $1.4 million in funding, generated upwards of $55,000 in revenue, and directly impacted the lives of more than 33,500 individuals.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this opportunity, your organization must meet the following requirements:
Geographic Scope
- Your startup must be operating within Sub-Saharan Africa.
Focus Areas in SRH
Your solution should address one or more of the following priority areas:
- Enhancing maternal health beyond antenatal care, with a focus on safe pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum services.
- Providing safe abortion solutions and post-abortion care by eliminating barriers to access.
- Delivering youth-centered SRH information and services for individuals aged 10–24.
- Innovatively preventing and responding to gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual violence.
- Expanding access to contraception and offering comprehensive SRH education.
Technology Readiness
- Your solution must leverage technology or demonstrate strong potential for tech-driven scalability.
- A functional prototype is required. This could be a product demo (video format), an explanatory pitch deck, a working website, or an equivalent representation of the product.
Startup Profile
- Your startup must be officially registered with the appropriate authorities in your country of operation.
- Ventures must not have received institutional venture capital. However, funding from angel investors, family, friends, grants, or competitions such as hackathons is permitted.
Program Benefits
Selected ventures will gain access to a comprehensive suite of support and resources, including:
- Expert-Guided Incubation: A two-month, cohort-based curriculum focused on entrepreneurship, evidence-based practices, and SRH innovation.
- Ongoing Coaching: Six months of personalized mentorship and technical assistance from SRH experts and seasoned venture builders.
- Peer Networking: Opportunities to connect with fellow innovators for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and joint problem-solving.
- Strategic Partnerships: Engagement with policymakers, health sector stakeholders, and industry leaders.
- Access to Funding: Initial grant support of $10,000 USD, with potential for up to $30,000 USD for top-performing startups progressing to the acceleration stage.
- Investor Connections: Direct linkages to funders, donors, and influential ecosystem players to further support your venture’s growth.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the program, applicants must:
- Be the founder or co-founder, or hold primary decision-making power within the startup.
- Be comfortable using digital tools and have reliable access to a computer and the internet.
- Be 18 years or older at the time of application.
- Have at least basic proficiency in English.
Application Deadline: April 18, 2025
[Click here to apply]
