Building active entrepreneurship ecosystems
Entrepreneurship grows where students are given the space, support, and confidence to act on their ideas.
We work with higher education institutions to strengthen the ecosystems that make this possible – from mentorship and incubation to policy and partnerships. By sharing practical tools and tested approaches, we help universities build environments where students can think creatively, solve real problems, and turn ideas into ventures that contribute to their communities, countries and the world.
Through our Entrepreneurship engagements, we have:
A research-informed self-assessment tool designed to help African higher education institutions evaluate, and strengthen their entrepreneurship ecosystems. By analyzing goals, activities, and support systems, institutions gain actionable insights to identify strengths and address gaps. Institutions access case studies, mentorship, and peer learning resources across the network to guide implementation.
A desk study that examines the entrepreneurship ecosystems of higher education institutions across Sub-Saharan Africa. It offers a clear definition and practical framework to help institutions assess, describe, and strengthen the systems that support entrepreneurial thinking and action.
A community that equips entrepreneurship ecosystem leaders to build and sustain the systems, culture, and capacity that nurture creative thinking and entrepreneurial spirit in students.
The Innovation and Proof of Concept Grant provides funding for institutions developing entrepreneurial solutions in higher education. We support promising ideas, including research, tools, and initiatives, that move from concept to implementation and expand career and innovation pathways across Africa.
A series of entrepreneurship case studies curated institutions with exemplar entrepreneurship practices in Sub-Saharan Africa that illustrate the successful models and approaches adopted in five higher education institutions.
A practical guide for universities looking to establish or strengthen spaces where students can test ideas, launch ventures, and grow as entrepreneurs.
The Guidebook compiles best practices and strategies shaped by African contexts and experiences, offering realistic approaches to building thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems on the continent.
Explore stories of innovation, systems-building, and student-led enterprise in action.
