Most startups in Rwanda do not survive their first 24 months. While lack of access to funding has been quite often cited for their failure, the ecosystem in which they operate is quite a challenge as actors do not know each other while investors don’t know where to find them. To navigate the hurdles of relying on word of mouth and personal network to do business, a web-based matchmaking platform has been designed to act as a mapping tool for Rwandan startup ecosystem. Serving as a directory of startups and other key players, the tool will enable companies to connect with each other, with investors, innovation hubs, mentors and regulators among others. The one-stop platform, dubbed innovate Rwanda, allows the ecosystem actors to create a profile, discover and connect with partners and avenues of support such as funding. It is equipped with features that let members interact and an archive with resources in instances where companies need to collaborate on projects. In addition, the digital ecosystem mapping tool is expected to foster exposure of companies to external markets and increase skills and investment. “We are trying to give startups a place to display what they are doing and encourage collaboration among people who are in the ecosystem,” said Olaf Seidel, Head of Digital Solutions for Sustainable Development (DSSD) programme that built the platform initiated by Rwanda Development Board through Kigali Innovation City. Commissioned by Germany, DSSD advises the Rwandan government on implementation of Smart Rwanda Master Plan and promotes the development of digital solutions. “Innovate Rwanda was created to showcase Rwanda’s growing ecosystem of technology and technology-enabled corporations, SMEs and startups and enablers,” reads the website. Seidel emphasized that Innovate Rwanda is developed on a constant basis, suggesting that more features such as a rating engine and expansion to other African countries are up to look out for. The platform is starting with tech companies, but players from other sectors are welcomed as well, according to Seidel. Under a new partnership with Deloitte Netherlands, the platform will see further development, especially in data analytics.
