Are you a visionary HealthTech entrepreneur with a groundbreaking idea to revolutionize healthcare in Africa? The UNDP Timbuktoo HealthTech Startup Accelerator Programme 2024 is now open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity to innovators committed to leveraging technology to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Africa’s HealthTech sector presents both immense challenges and opportunities, with the digital health market projected to reach $11 billion by 2025. To bridge critical healthcare gaps, the UNDP Timbuktoo initiative is dedicated to nurturing a robust HealthTech ecosystem by fostering startups that are developing cutting-edge solutions in deep tech, hardware, and advanced technologies.
Key Focus Areas:
- AI-driven diagnostics
- Locally manufactured medical devices
- Biotechnology tailored to African needs
This programme aims to build a strong foundation for a flourishing full-stack HealthTech industry across Africa.
Programme Benefits:
- Membership: Join the inaugural cohort of the Timbuktoo HealthTech Hub and gain access to the wider Timbuktoo ecosystem.
- Mentorship: Receive guidance from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs.
- Funding: Access equity-free funding of up to $100,000 USD.
- Networking: Connect with potential partners, collaborators, and customers.
- Investor Access: Tap into a network of investors interested in scaling HealthTech innovations.
- Growth Resources: Leverage resources and support to accelerate your startup’s growth and impact.
- UN and AfCFTA Networks: Gain access to networks and resources within the larger UN system and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
- Pan-African Impact: Contribute to shaping a pan-African HealthTech evolution.
Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the UNDP Timbuktoo HealthTech Startup Accelerator Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Founders must be nationals of an African country.
- Startups must be registered and operating within Africa.
- Startups should have been in operation for at least one year.
- Must address key development challenges with a technology-based solution.
- Startups must have a Minimum Viable Solution (MVS) that is regulated and licensed if necessary.
- Existing corporate governance systems and accountability structures must be in place.
- This application is limited to citizens of African Union member states.
Selection Criteria: The Timbuktoo HealthTech Hub seeks innovative startups that meet the following criteria:
- Technology-Enabled Solutions: Your startup should have technology at its core, utilizing digital tools to drive innovation and efficiency in healthcare.
- Alignment with SDGs: Your solution should contribute to one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, addressing critical global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
- High Scalability: Your startup should demonstrate potential for high scalability through digital distribution channels or rapid sales growth across markets.
- Defensible Position: Your startup must have a defensible position, such as Intellectual Property (IP) rights, network effects, domain expertise, or regional market dominance.
- Innovation and Uniqueness: Your approach should offer novel solutions to health challenges with the potential for disruptive impact in the healthcare sector.
- Technical Feasibility: Your solution should have a sound scientific or technical basis with a realistic development timeline.
- Regulatory Compliance: Show awareness of relevant healthcare regulations and have a strategy for obtaining necessary approvals.
Ready to Apply? Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative initiative. Apply now and take the next step towards revolutionizing healthcare in Africa!