The Foundation for Youth Initiatives (FYI), in partnership with the Cooperative Bank and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, successfully launched the Orange Corner Innovation Fund (OCIF) yesterday in South Sudan. Under the theme “Empowering Aspiring Young Entrepreneurs to Unleash Their Entrepreneurial Potential,” the event brought together key stakeholders including entrepreneurs, business leaders, and financial institutions to discuss the opportunities and challenges of financing start-ups in the country.
The launch featured opening remarks from distinguished guests who highlighted the significance of the OCIF in fostering innovation and economic growth among young entrepreneurs. Speakers included Professor John Jal Wang, Chairman of the Board of Directors of FYI; Deputy Ambassador Bouwe Jan Smeding from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; Muhammad Shahin from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO); Justo Wani Jada, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba; and Albino Gaw, CEO of FYI. Each emphasized the need for accessible funding, mentorship, and supportive policies to create a thriving start-up ecosystem in South Sudan.
A key highlight was an interactive panel discussion on access to finance for start-ups. Industry leaders and entrepreneurs shared valuable insights on securing funding, scaling businesses, and the role of financial institutions in supporting young innovators. Panelists included a representative from Cooperative Bank, the CEO of Ubuntu Company Limited, a Member of Cohort One of the OCIAC Training Program, and a representative from OCIAC.
The event was well attended by young entrepreneurs from both Cohort One and Cohort Two of the OCIAC program. Networking sessions allowed them to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. The launch also received broad media coverage, shining a spotlight on the growing youth entrepreneurship movement in South Sudan.
With the successful launch of OCIF, the initiative is set to play a vital role in helping young entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into reality offering financial resources, mentorship, and the right connections to support long-term success.
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