The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is excited to unveil a major event under the “UNDP Meet the Toshikas” initiative, aimed at fostering a dynamic start-up ecosystem in South Africa, Angola, and Zambia. This innovative event is designed to create valuable connections among investors, accelerators, incubators, local corporates, and governmental bodies, all eager to collaborate with promising start-ups.
Scheduled to take place in South Africa, the event will highlight the achievements of 10 exceptional start-ups from an initial pool of 254 applicants. These start-ups, having undergone a rigorous selection process, are set to present their pioneering ideas to a global audience, showcasing their potential to significantly impact the international start-up scene.
Participants can expect a range of activities, including pitch sessions, insightful presentations, and panel discussions featuring prominent ecosystem stakeholders and esteemed Japanese investors. These discussions aim to provide deep insights into South Africa’s start-up landscape, revealing its complexities and opportunities.
“Meet the Toshikas” will also serve as a crucial networking platform, bringing together Japanese investors and local stakeholders such as accelerators, incubators, governmental bodies, and corporations. This initiative is expected to spur collaborations and investment opportunities that drive sustainable growth and innovation.
The event offers a unique chance to engage with South Africa’s vibrant start-up community and witness the ingenuity of its top entrepreneurs. Through this initiative, the UNDP is dedicated to empowering young African entrepreneurs and creating an environment conducive to their success.
The “Meet the Toshikas” initiative is backed by a strategic partnership with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), highlighting a shared vision of unlocking Africa’s entrepreneurial potential. Japanese investors are integral to this mission, providing not only financial backing but also crucial expertise and networks to elevate African start-ups.
Beyond the event, “Meet the Toshikas” aims to mobilize funding for tech-driven start-ups aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhance the competitiveness of young African entrepreneurs, and encourage more Japanese venture capital investment in Africa.
For more details about the event, please visit UNDP Meet the Toshikas.