Across Uganda, young entrepreneurs are redefining business with a purpose. They are creating solutions that care for both people and the planet. From turning agricultural waste into compost to designing renewable energy solutions, these innovators are proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.
The WeWork – Green and Decent Jobs for Youth project is implemented by StartHub Africa in collaboration with Enabel, the Belgian Agency for International Cooperation, under the Global Gateway strategy and funded by the European Union and Belgium. It is creating the space for these ideas to grow into impactful, scalable businesses.
This 24-month project is designed to empower youth-led businesses operating in the Circular and Green Economy (CGE). By providing incubation, financing, and technical expertise, the project aims to transform early-stage ventures with prototypes or proof of concept into sustainable enterprises capable of generating jobs and revenue, while promoting environmental stewardship.
Who Are We Targeting?
The project welcomes young innovators aged 18 to 35 who are ready to take their early-stage ventures to the next level. Women founders and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Eligible businesses must align with the principles of the circular and green economy, prioritising sustainability, resource optimisation, and eco-friendly solutions, whether through renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, waste-to-product innovations, or sustainable tourism.
The initiative spans key regions of Uganda, including Kampala Metropolitan (Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono), West Nile (Madi-Okello, Terego, Adjumani, Arua, Arua City, Yumbe, Kiryandongo), and Busoga (Jinja, Jinja City, Kamuli). This reach ensures that a diverse array of youth entrepreneurs can access mentorship, training, and funding opportunities.
Understanding the Circular and Green Economy
Circular and green economy ventures go beyond traditional business; they rethink how resources are used. These businesses reduce waste, harness renewable energy, regenerate ecosystems, and create value through sustainable practices. Whether it’s producing eco-friendly building materials, developing renewable energy solutions, practising regenerative agriculture, engaging in sustainable tourism, or turning waste into compost and bio-fertilisers, the project supports a wide range of innovative solutions that contribute to Uganda’s environmental and economic future.
Benefits for Participants
Participants in the program will benefit from bootcamps led by expert business trainers, seed grants to support growth, and four and a half months of personalised coaching focused on revenue, market access, and job creation. The program also provides financial management and compliance guidance and offers opportunities to pitch to investors and ecosystem partners. Businesses must have the ambition and potential to scale.
Take the First Step
This application round specifically targets businesses within the Kampala Metropolitan Region, and selection will be done in phases.
If you are a young entrepreneur building a business that is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable, Apply here and take your first step toward shaping Uganda’s circular and green economy.
