In November 2024 the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation launched a Manufacturing Technologies Hub (ManuTech) in Addis Ababa. The hub is designed to support startups from across Africa to work on scalable solutions to transform the manufacturing sector in the continent.
Manufacturing technologies are tools and processes that enhance efficiency, quality, and productivity in manufacturing. These technologies range from smart factories and IoT to data analytics, product design, and predictive maintenance, forming the basis of the fourth industrial revolution.
The ManuTech Hub will host a hybrid boot camp and acceleration program in early 2025, both in person and virtually in Addis Ababa.
The ManuTech Hub is looking for innovative startups that are:
Technology-Enabled Solution: Your startup must have a technology-enabled solution at its core, utilizing digital tools and platforms to drive innovation and efficiency in the manufacturing sector.
High Scalability: Your startup should demonstrate high scalability either through digital distribution channels or the ability to scale sales rapidly across markets.
Innovation and uniqueness: Novel approach to solving manufacturing challenges, potential for disruptive impact in the manufacturing sector.
Technical feasibility: Sound technical basis for the solution, realistic development timeline.
Startups in the following areas are highly encouraged to apply, although the application is not limited to this list:
Manufacturing execution systems.
Robotics and Automation.
AI and Machine learning.
Machine health monitoring.
Maintenance management systems.
Industrial Internet of Things.
Eligibility:
The call is open to technology-focused startup founders across Africa aged between 18 and 35, who can build, or are already building, tech-based startups in ManuTech that meet the following criteria:
Startups with founders who are citizens of an African country.
Startups must be locally owned and based in any African country.
Startups leveraging technology in the manufacturing sector to capitalize on complex development opportunities and solve challenges.
Startups with a minimum viable product.
Programme Timeline:
Application and Selection Process: November 2024 – January 2025
Bootcamp: February 2025
Incubation & Acceleration: March 2025 – June 2025
Benefits
Membership in the pioneer cohort of Timbuktoo ManuTech Hub and the entire Timbuktoo ecosystem
Mentorship from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs.
Equity-free funding of up to $20,000 USD.
Networking with potential partners, collaborators, and customers.
Access to investor networks.
Resources and support to accelerate growth and impact.
Access to networks and agencies within the larger UN system.
Access to networks and resources within the AfCFTA system.
