August to November 2024 | Selection Process
SAIS and VC4A will host two info sessions-webinars aiming to answer your questions about the program and the eligibility criteria, criteria of selection, program overview, timeline, and more.
The session will be held on August 15, 2024, in both English and French, you can select and register to the sessions here.
Complete the online application form in English or in French to apply to the program by Monday, 2 September 2024 at 23:59 CET (German time). SAIS will review the online applications and invite long-listed applicants for interviews which will take place in October. SAIS aims to notify selected start-ups by mid-November 2024.
December 2024 to March 2025 | Needs Assessment and Development Planning
We will conduct a virtual onboarding session in December where you will e-meet your fellow innovators. You will be paired with a navigator from the SAIS team who serves as your main point of contact during the program. Together with your navigator, you will draft a development plan specifying your support needs and planning for the deployment of the SAIS IRP services. Where possible, your navigator will conduct a field visit to better understand your business model, operations, and customers.
February 2025 | In-person Kick-off at SAIStival 2025
The SAIStival is our program’s unique community & networking event where we bring together portfolio and alumni start-ups. SAIStival 2025 will take place from 9 to 11 February 2025 (tbc) in Nairobi, Kenya, back-to-back with the Africa Tech Summit 2025 (12 to 13 February).
March to September 2025 | Execution of Development Plans
During this period, you and your navigator will implement the activities and tasks defined in your development plan and deploy targeted support measures together with the SAIS network of mentors, experts, and partners. Regular virtual check-ins with your navigator will help you stay on track. We also organize monthly community and peer-learning events on a range of topics and through a mix of formats, also inviting external speakers and guests. In September 2025, we convene for a virtual midterm check-in to reflect on your progress and set milestones for the next stage.
September 2025 to February 2026 | Investment Exposure & Deal Facilitation
For the last stretch of the program, we focus helping you raise additional capital and investment to scale your impact. For start-ups that are actively fundraising, we provide strategic support and guidance for outreach to investors & funds. Where suitable, we sponsor trips to selected sector conferences or exhibitions.
February 2026 | In-person Graduation from the Programme at SAIStival 2026
SAIStival 2026 marks your official graduation from the SAIS Investment Readiness Programme while we also welcome the new cohort.
