UAEP –
Uganda Agro Processing Ecosystem Program

Empowering Uganda’s agro processing businesses through practical business incubation, expert mentorship, product development support, market access, and stronger connections between farmers, processors, and buyers.

UAEP –
Uganda Agro Processing Ecosystem Program

Empowering Uganda’s agro processing businesses through practical business incubation, expert mentorship, product development support, market access, and stronger connections between farmers, processors, and buyers.

About the Project

The Uganda Agro Processing Ecosystem Program (UAEP) is a two year initiative implemented by StartHub Africa with support from Wilde Ganzen Foundation. The program aims to strengthen Uganda’s agro processing sector by helping small businesses improve their products, expand market access, increase sales, and create sustainable employment opportunities.

Who Can Apply?

A typical applicant operates a food or cosmetics processing business, generates approximately UGX 6 million to UGX 50 million in annual revenue, and is committed to participating in practical training, mentorship, and business development activities. Women owned and women led businesses are particularly encouraged to apply.

Incubation

Selected entrepreneurs will participate in a practical five day business bootcamp, followed by three months of structured incubation and personalised mentorship working with experienced business coaches and food science experts.

Market Access

Participants will receive support to improve product quality, branding, packaging, financial management, and market positioning. Participants will also access free market exhibitions and opportunities to explore new distribution channels.

Acceleration

Selected entrepreneurs will receive advanced coaching, market testing, buyer connections, and access a total grant pool of UGX 80 million to address critical business growth challenges.

What are we looking for?

Businesses that create opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs who are increasing the value of agricultural produce, reduce post-harvest losses, develop competitive local brands, and generate employment. Examples of relevant businesses include:

  1. Honey and Bee Products: Processing, packaging, and marketing honey and other bee derived products.
  2. Fruit and Beverage Processing: Production of juices, dried fruits, concentrates, and other value added fruit products.
  3. Grain, Nut and Cereal Processing: Processing of grains, groundnuts, cereals, and other agricultural produce into packaged consumer products.
  4. Natural Cosmetics and Personal Care: Production of cosmetics, skincare, and haircare products using agricultural ingredients such as avocado, honey, and plant oils.
  5. Sauces, Spices and Condiments: Production of packaged sauces, spices, seasonings, and other processed food ingredients.

Participation Eligibility

  1. Be an existing agro processing business across all regions in Uganda (East, Central, North, West).
  2. Operate in the food or cosmetics agro processing sector.
  3. Have at least one market ready product with potential for commercial growth.
  4. Generate estimated annual revenue between UGX 6 million and UGX 50 million.
  5. Available and committed to participating in the three (3) month incubation program, including training and mentorship activities.
UAEP Partner Logo Strip

About

The Uganda Agro Processing Ecosystem Program (UAEP) is a two year initiative implemented by StartHub Africa with support from Wilde Ganzen Foundation.

Ask Questions

For more information, get in touch: b.ntongo@starthubafrica.org

Phone: 0774171856