Jasiri Talent Investor program, based in Kigali, Rwanda, is looking for 55 entrepreneurs for mentorship and training in a year-long engagement.

In a statement, the programme, which is being supported by Allan and Gill Gray Foundation, announced that the successful candidates will be flown to Rwanda where they stand a chance to interact with equally ambitious co-founders while receiving the much-needed support to create thriving businesses.

It is looking for individuals aged between 25 years and 35 years who exhibit an exceptional entrepreneurial drive. They will be accorded the tools, resources and guidance they need to launch high-growth ventures. 

Among the resources is a monthly stipend as well as intensive coaching, mentoring, and linkages with industry experts.

An aerial view of Nairobi City's skyline dated October 2020. FILE EYECONIC MEDIA

“We are excited to open applications for our third cohort and look forward to recruiting aspiring entrepreneurs across Rwanda, Kenya and Ethiopia. 

"We believe responsible entrepreneurship is at the center of community transformation. We encourage young achievers who aspire to realise their entrepreneurial aspirations to apply,” stated Allan and Gill Gray Foundation Rwanda Country Director Aline Kabanda.

"This fully-funded one-year program takes a long-term holistic approach to develop entrepreneurs by providing them with the time and space to identify Market-Creating Innovation and product-market fit," read a statement from Jasiri Website.

Successful candidates will be accorded a flight to Kigali as well as a monthly stipend of Ksh29,500 (USD250). They will also undergo a training in five key stages including entrepreneurship essentials, team formation, prospecting, validation and venture creation.

The founders who then choose to have their start-ups anchored in Nairobi, will be facilitated with a flight to the city in the sun and a monthly stipend of Ksh118,000 (USD1,000).

How to Apply

Jasiri describes its ideal candidate as an individual desire and commitment to build an innovative high-growth venture and should be a team player with a demonstrable history of entrepreneurial action. 

Interested candidates are advised to register and create an account on the Accelerator Application platform through the Jasiri Accelerator Programme at jasiri.acceleratorapp.co/application/new.

After you have registered on the platform, you will then receive a notification that will prompt you to complete the form and submit it on the platform.

Applicants are also advised to complete the entrepreneurial intentions assessment within 7 days from which Successful applicants will move to the next stage.

Other tests in the process include innovation scenario assessment that includes a pitch video as well as Jasiri Psychometric Test. 

Jasiri, which has already accepted two cohorts, credits Rwanda as its regional hub.

A Rwandan Flag overlooking a city. BBC