INCUBOX strengthens the promotion of youth entrepreneurship in northern Mozambique

At this stage of the project, the 12 sustainable modular incubators — eco-friendly , prefabricated, and equipped with solar energy, Wi-Fi connectivity, restrooms, and storage spaces — began pre-incubation activities that included radio debates and other actions to mobilize potential beneficiaries, with a view to publicizing applications for the 3rd incubation cycle. Incubox is empowering 1080 young people, who are being mentored, with the clear goal that 40% of these startups will be led by women; it is creating startups that will have access to funding, technical assistance, and formalization. The project has the potential to create between 3,000 and 3,250 direct jobs, strengthening the local economy and leveraging the rural productive fabric.

Strategically located in Mandimba, Cuamba, Mecanhelas, and Marrupa in Niassa; Ilha de Moçambique, Lumbo, Mossuril, and Ribáuè in Nampula; and Balama, Montepuez, Chiúre, and Palma in Cabo Delgado, INCUBOX marked the closing of its second incubation cycle with events attended by representatives of local governments, youth associations, strategic partners, and community members. These events included business meetings and a discussion on the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship in the districts. In general, the incubators developed pre-incubation actions, including community mobilization, dissemination of information about applications, lectures, awareness sessions and the use of community radio, aiming to reach a greater number of potential young beneficiaries. INCUBOX technicians also conducted monitoring visits to beneficiaries of the 2nd cycle, after receiving start-up funds, allowing them to track project implementation, identify progress, and reinforce the sustainability of ongoing businesses.