Business Development and Startup Acceleration Consultant

General Objective:

The objective is to provide post-acceleration support to 15 SMEs that have previously participated in the Home Grown Solutions Accelerator (HGSA) while strengthening AUDA-NEPAD’s internal capacity to manage business acceleration programs independently.

Specific Objectives:

• Institutionalize the HGSA methodology within AUDA-NEPAD to reduce reliance on external technical support.

• Provide tailored post-acceleration support to at least 15 SMEs, focusing on strategic business development, funding, legal compliance, and market access.

• Enhance AUDA-NEPAD staff capacity through accredited training programs to improve technical support for future HGS initiatives.

• Develop support tools, including standardized methodology guides, templates, databases, and knowledge-sharing platforms for accelerator programs.

• Facilitate mentorship and networking opportunities through industry seminars and peer-to-peer learning.

Experience in supporting SMEs and startups in Africa, particularly within acceleration programs.

Knowledge of innovation ecosystems, investment, and business financing.

Ability to design and implement growth strategies and market access plans for businesses.

Experience in capacity-building and training for entrepreneurs.