ManuTech hub - Ethiopia

 

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 work on scalable solutions to transform the manufacturing sector in the continent. 

 

Call for applications  

23 November 2024: Are you an aspiring startup in the manufacturing technology sector looking to grow your business across the continent? Join the timbuktoo ManuTech bootcamp in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 

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 in Addis Ababa and virtually. 

man and woman using technology
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 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.

How to Apply:

Complete the Application here.  

Queries?  Visit the FAQs page here.

Deadline: 8 January 2025  

 

 

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timbuktoo hub
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FAQ - ManuTech Hub

timbuktoo is UNDP's pan-African innovative initiative to spark a start-up revolution in Africa. timbuktoo’s ambition is to mobilize and invest US$ 1 billion of catalytic and commercial capital to transform 100 million livelihoods and create 10 million dignified new jobs.