Successful Launch of SKIES Project and Startup Incubation Program in Nakuru
The MSEA Nakuru office marked a significant milestone with the successful launch of the SKIES (Strengthening Kenya’s Innovation Ecosystem) project, ushering in the first cohort of 30 startups into a new and dynamic incubation program.
This transformative initiative, part of the broader Kenya Industry and Entrepreneurship Project (KIEP) spearheaded by the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry’s State Department of Industrialization, is backed by The World Bank, Spineberg, and the E4Impact Foundation. The SKIES project aims to bolster Kenya’s innovation landscape through targeted support and resources for emerging businesses.
The launch event, held at Nakuru Box, was attended by County Executive Committee Members (CECs) from various directorates in Nakuru County, alongside a diverse group of MSE startups from Nakuru, Baringo, and Nyandarua counties. These startups, representing key sectors including Manufacturing/Value Addition, Agriculture, Financial Technology, and Technology, will now embark on a journey of growth and development.
As part of the incubation program, the selected startups will have access to a suite of expert services designed to foster their success. These include comprehensive support in Legal, Human Resources, Business Planning, Digital Marketing, and Financial/Tax Consultancy.
“The SKIES project represents a critical step forward in strengthening Kenya’s innovation ecosystem,” said a representative from MSEA Nakuru. “We are excited to support these 30 promising startups as they take their next big leap, equipped with the necessary tools and guidance to thrive.”
The project’s implementation will span across six counties, with Nakuru, Baringo, and Nyandarua as the initial focus areas. The SKIES initiative is set to provide a robust framework for the growth and success of MSEs, driving economic development and fostering innovation across the region.
This launch event not only celebrated the beginning of this significant project but also highlighted the collaborative efforts of governmental bodies, international organizations, and local partners in shaping the future of Kenya’s entrepreneurial landscape.