StartHub Africa, in collaboration with Enabel, the Belgian Agency for International Cooperation is implementing WeWork – Green and Decent Jobs for Youth .The project, under the Global Gateway strategy and funded by the European Union and Belgium, is designed to equip young entrepreneurs to develop solutions in the green and circular economy.
The 24-month project aims to strengthen early-stage, youth-led businesses by providing incubation, financing, and tailored technical expertise. The project is part of a broader effort to promote climate-resilient entrepreneurship, create decent jobs, and contribute to Uganda’s transition toward a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy.
Empowering Youth Innovators in the Green and Circular Economy
WeWork targets entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35 who are building eco-friendly and resource-efficient ventures. Eligible businesses include those innovating in renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, waste-to-product solutions, sustainable tourism, eco-construction materials, aquaculture, horticulture, and other environmentally sustainable sectors.
The project covers key regions across Uganda, including the Kampala Metropolitan area (Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono), West Nile (Madi-Okello, Terego, Adjumani, Arua, Arua City, Yumbe, Kiryandongo), and Busoga (Jinja, Jinja City, Kamuli). This wide reach enables youth entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to access mentorship, training, and funding opportunities.
Fred Opio, Incubation and Acceleration Intervention Officer at Enabel noted the significance of the project, saying:
“Young people are at the forefront of climate innovation. Through WeWork, we are investing in their potential to design solutions that support greener livelihoods while strengthening local economies. This project reflects our commitment to empowering youth to create or scale opportunities that are both sustainable and dignified.”
Key Benefits for Young Innovators
Selected entrepreneurs will participate in bootcamps led by experienced business trainers, followed by 4.5 months of personalized coaching focused on revenue growth, market access, and job creation. The project also provides seed grants to accelerate business development and strengthen prototypes, operations, and overall competitiveness.
Andrew Kakinda, Project Management Lead at StartHub Africa highlighted the organization's role in nurturing youth-led innovation:
“StartHub Africa is excited to support young entrepreneurs who are moving Uganda towards a circular and sustainable future. Our goal is to provide practical tools, mentorship, and resources that help early-stage businesses grow into impactful ventures capable of creating decent jobs and long-term environmental benefits.”
The first application round targets businesses located in the Kampala Metropolitan Region, including Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono. Selection will be conducted in phases, and applicants who are not selected in this round will receive communication on next steps and future consideration as the program expands to other regions, specifically in West Nile and Busoga Sub-Regions.
Young entrepreneurs within the Kampala Metropolitan Region who are building green or circular economy ventures are invited to apply here: www.starthubafrica.org/wework
A Collaborative Effort
The WeWork project is implemented by StartHub Africa on behalf of Enabel, working closely with local governments and ecosystem partners. The project aligns with national priorities on youth employment, environmental sustainability, and economic transformation.
