Challenge Fund II

Do you have an innovative idea that will transform the tourism sector?
Get the chance to prototype it in Benin.

The Sèmè City Development Agency (ADSC), in partnership with the World Bank and the National Agency for the Promotion of Heritage and the Development of Tourism (ANPT), is launching a new call for innovation with the Challenge Fund 2. This year, the goal is to connect innovative startups with local communities to improve tourism in Benin.

The first edition of the Challenge Fund took place in 2017 and brought entrepreneurs together to reflect on and innovate in the tourism sector. Following a rigorous selection process, 4 projects were prized at the Innovation Made in Africa Forum (FORIMA). The entrepreneurs who received $ 150,000 are currently supported in the implementation of their prototypes by Incub’IMA, Sèmè City’s first incubator.

This year, 7 local communities in Benin will serve as prime prototyping locations for entrepreneurs to present their innovative ideas for the tourism experience of the future, while taking into consideration the challenges that these local communities face. Abomey, Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Grand Popo, Ouidah, Nikki and Natitingou will be your labs in this a win-win experiment.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Young entrepreneurs with an innovative project in the conception or prototyping phase for the tourism sector Small and Medium-sized Enterprises operating or not in the tourism sector.

WHAT CAN I WIN?

Up to $ 250 000 in funding and access to the experts and resources of Incub’IMA, Sèmè City’s first incubator, powered by PwC.

WHAT ARE THE SELECTION CRITERIA?

Projects must stand out in the following areas :

• Innovation
• Impact on tourism attractiveness
• Social, economic and/or environmental impacts
• Financial sustainability
• Scalability and/or replicability
• Organizational leadership
• Financing capacity
• Shared value creation or public utility opportunities