The Value Creation Challenge (VCC), Zimbabwe’s premier business incubation initiative, has announced an extension of its application deadline to June 4, 2025, offering aspiring entrepreneurs additional time to submit their entries for this year’s fifth edition.
Empowering Zimbabwe’s Entrepreneurs Through Innovation, Mentorship, and Inclusive Growth“
Launched in 2020, the VCC has become a game-changer for startups in Zimbabwe, equipping early-stage businesses with mentorship, funding opportunities, and tools for long-term growth. This flagship program is spearheaded by the Eight2Five Innovation Hub and powered by Old Mutual Zimbabwe, with the support of a strong network of partners including the British Council, British Embassy, Zimbabwe Agricultural Development Trust (ZADT), SNV, Delta Corporation, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, and the Embassy of Sweden.
The program targets Zimbabwean entrepreneurs with innovative solutions and prototypes, providing a platform to refine ideas, build viable business models, and connect with strategic investors. Over the years, VCC has helped numerous businesses rise above early hurdles such as limited capital, market access challenges, and inadequate support structures.
This year’s edition, VCC 5, focuses on four key sectors:
- Innovative Technology
- Creative Industries
- Emerging Industries
- Sustainability
In the lead-up to the application deadline, the VCC team conducted a nationwide tour of business clinics across Zimbabwe, reaching out to communities in Kadoma, Murehwa, Mutare, Masvingo, Mwenezi, Zvishavane, Gweru, Gokwe, Harare, Chinhoyi, Marondera, Nyanga, Rusape, and across Matabeleland, including Bulawayo, Esigodini, Matopos, and Lupane. These clinics provided on-the-ground support, mentorship, and critical insights to entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.
To support applicants ahead of the new deadline, an informative webinar will be hosted this Saturday, offering guidance on the application process, eligibility criteria, and program expectations. Interested participants can register here: https://forms.gle/ySeCHrguKLqf95HS9.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Applicants must be Zimbabwean citizens aged 18 or older
- They must be the owners of the business (no third-party applications)
- Businesses must be no older than three years
- Selected participants must be available at least four days per month from June to September 2025
This year’s program places a special emphasis on inclusivity, with deliberate efforts to encourage youth, women, and persons with disabilities to apply. The program aims to empower marginalized communities and promote gender balance, acknowledging the transformative role diverse entrepreneurs play in economic development.
As Zimbabwe continues to seek pathways to economic resilience and innovation-driven growth, the Value Creation Challenge stands as a critical platform for turning promising ideas into impactful enterprises.
For more information and to apply, visit: www.vcc.co.zw
Empowering entrepreneurs. Enabling impact. Building Zimbabwe’s future—one innovation at a time.
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