249Startups, a mission-driven company fostering Sudan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, has successfully launched the I-UPSHIFT program in Kassala State. The initiative was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, represented by its Director General, Mr. Adam Mohamed Adam Garnous. This strategic partnership is designed to empower 500 young men and women in Kassala to launch their own entrepreneurial ventures and contribute significantly to their local communities.
Strategic Partnership for Youth Empowerment
The MoU signing marks the beginning of a dedicated effort to enhance entrepreneurship opportunities within Kassala. The Ministry of Youth and Sports serves as a crucial strategic partner, providing local expertise and connection to the youth demographic, while 249Startups leads the implementation. The shared objective is to cultivate a new generation of founders who can drive economic activity and job creation in the state.
I-UPSHIFT: A Multi-Stakeholder Initiative
The I-UPSHIFT program is the result of a cooperative partnership involving several key international and local stakeholders committed to development in the Horn of Africa:
- International Labour Organization (ILO): A key partner in the initiative, which aligns with the ILO’s broader PROSPECTS program.
- Kingdom of the Netherlands: Provides essential backing for the program, reflecting international support for Sudan’s youth development.
- 249Startups: Serves as the lead executive partner, responsible for implementing the entrepreneurial support and training programs on the ground.
- Local Partners and Ministry of Youth and Sports: Provide necessary local context, resources, and coordination to maximize the program’s reach and impact.
This collaborative model is intended to ensure the targeted empowerment of the 500 participants, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to successfully launch and scale their ventures.
About 249Startups
249Startups is a mission-driven company established in April 2018 with the goal of developing a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Sudan. Its vision is to support Sudanese entrepreneurs and investors by being their gateway to the world and actively reshaping economic communities. The organization works to “hack the entrepreneurial ecosystem” by finding innovative solutions and providing exposure to scalable Sudanese startups through various enabling environments, support programs, and activities. The I-UPSHIFT program is a direct extension of their mission to create opportunities for passionate entrepreneurs in Sudan.
Source: 249Startups
