Product Development Consulting Service – Kigali

Digital products and services are critical for any economy to flourish. This is no different in Rwanda where the digital economy, as a result of the increasing online connections among people, businesses, devices, data, and processes, is gaining traction. With the progressive enabling environment in place, innovators, mostly young, are creating digital solutions in response to a number of societal challenges. Tech Startups seeking to become problems-solvers and job creators are burgeoning aspirations to grow and scale their business ideas. Much as Startups’ growth trajectories may differ, they tend to grapple with similar issues while progressing through growth stages.

Exuus is working with The Digital Transformation Center Kigali (DigiCenter) to support up to 15 Startups that are working on digital products or services through a 2-months Tech Startups Growth Support Program. Tech Startups with early-stage prototypes that require assistance in product improvement, market testing, data gathering, market validation, business modelling, and IP protection amongst other growth areas are encouraged to apply.

Eligibility criteria

• Have an early stage prototype (MVP) or proof of concept for the product or service. Ideas or mere concepts are not allowed.
• Only digital/tech products or services will be considered.
• Demonstrate a good understanding of the challenge being addressed using digital technologies? At least one (1) member of the team needs to have technical skills in the sector where the Startup is intervening.
• A demonstrable history of entrepreneurial action and the desire to navigate the intertwined complexities of product development and business viability.
• Willingness to commit to the program series of scheduled activities (virtual & in-person).
• Be based in Rwanda.
• We encourage youth and women-led startups to apply.

Program offering

• Successful startups will have access to training/coaching sessions on how to build robust, competitive, and scalable digital products/services.

• Successful startups will be exposed to the OIP stakeholder’s database comprising industry experts, subject-matter experts, and potential collaborators.
• Opportunity to be part of a cohort of like-minded entrepreneurs and access the opportunities the network offers.