LCAP Market Validation
The Leading Change Accelerator Program (LCAP) is a comprehensive 12 weeks entrepreneurship program tailored to African youth looking to scale their business, equipping them with practical skills, mentorship, and access to funding. The initiative supports startups in high-impact sectors such as agribusiness, health, renewable energy, digital finance, and smart manufacturing.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
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Open to African-led startups with founders aged 18-40.
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Applicants must be founders, CEO’s or Managing Directors of the startup.
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Applicants must have a business that is at idea stage or early-stage (0-2 years in operation).
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Ability to fully participate in the three- month virtual program from Mid-June to End August
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Must be proficient in English
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Must have access to an internet enabled device (laptop or smartphone) as well as access to the internet.
Applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underserved communities are highly recommended.
Program Objectives
Develop Foundational Entrepreneurial Capacity
Equip African youth with business development and entrepreneurial skills.
Foster Strategic Growth and Connection
Enhance market validation strategies for startups through real-world testing.
Drive Sustainable Business Development
Support the creation of sustainable and scalable businesses.
Program Components
Business Development Training
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Covering business modeling
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Market validation
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Competitive analysis
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Sustainable scaling strategies.
Sector-Specific Mentorship
Access to experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders from Africa.
Financial Literacy & Capital Raising
Training on investment readiness, and alternative financing models.
Pitch Readiness
&
Exposure
Entrepreneurs will participate in a pitch competition with the chance of accessing up to $2500 in funding.
Culturally Relevant Support Networks
Encouraging community-based collaborations, peer-to-peer learning, and knowledge-sharing within the African startup ecosystem.