Application Deadline: January 16th, 2022
MEST Express is an acceleration program focused on providing investment-readiness support to early and growth-stage startups in Ghana. It is designed to deliver hands-on business interventions that are focused on rapid practical application and observable business outcomes. The program works with founders to ensure their businesses are poised for growth and increased impact.
After 20 weeks of hands-on expert-led workshops and mentorship, startups in each cohort have the opportunity to participate in a pitching session where top-performing ventures receive equity-free grant funding.
The sessions will be held in person at the MEST campus as well as online. Participants are expected to attend all necessary sessions whether virtual or offline. COVID protocols will be strictly adhered to for the safety of all program participants.
Requirements
- Early to growth stage Ghanaian startups
- 1-3 years in operation
- Technology or tech-enabled
- $100k or less in funding
- Proven problem-solution fit
- Generating revenue
- Can demonstrate traction
- Any business model
Program Focus Areas
- Funding & Investment readiness
- Risk Management and Crisis Resilience
- Product Management & Positioning
- Business and Revenue Modelling
- Sales & Customer Acquisition
- Market Research & Competitive Analysis
- Marketing & Brand awareness
- Organizational Structuring
Benefits
Capital
Top-performing startups receive equity-free grant funding for sustained growth
Know-how
Learn & apply strategies focused on rapid application & tangible outcomes
Mentorship
Get mentorship from industry professionals and sector experts
Network access
Get access to our community of experts, investors and founders
Startup Journey
- Week 0 – Onboarding & Orientation
- Week 1 – Needs Assessment
- Week 2 to 4 – Ongoing workshops
- Week 5 – Mentor Matching
- Week 6 to 9 – Ongoing workshops
- Week 10 – Midpoint debriefs
- Week 11 to 19 – Ongoing workshops
- Week 20 – Retrospective & Final Exhibition
Application Procedure:
- Fill out the application form on F6S (startups must create an account)
- Startups shortlisted for the interview stage
- Interviews are held with shortlisted startups
- Offer letters sent to finalists
Timeline:
- Applications open – 8th November, 2021
- Applications close – 16th January, 2022
- Program begins – 21st February, 2022
- Program ends – 15th June, 2022
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the MEST Scale venture acceleration program 2022