This was a one-month innovation acceleration program implemented in 2017 with funding from Uganda Development Bank (UDBL). The program targeted small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with high growth potential but facing common scaling bottlenecks including access to finance, business development support, and market linkages. RAN’s implementation approach involved: (1) running a competitive selection of promising innovators through a rigorous application and pitching process; (2) designing and rolling out a customized business acceleration curriculum covering financial management, marketing strategy, operations optimization, and investment readiness; one-on-one mentorship from experienced business leaders and sector experts; (3) conducting peer learning circles that facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration among the participants; and (4) investor connection events linking innovators and entrepreneurs with potential funders including UDBL’s investment teams.

The program design recognized that different enterprises required different types of support based on their development stage, sector, and growth ambitions. Early-stage ventures received intensive support in business model validation and minimum viable product development, while more established SMEs focused on scaling strategies, organizational development, and preparing for larger investment rounds. The program also addressed sector-specific challenges, with specialized tracks for agricultural enterprises, technology ventures, manufacturing businesses, and service companies.

Beyond immediate business outcomes, the program strengthened relationships between UDBL and the innovation ecosystem, helping it better understand the needs and potential of growth-oriented SMEs while building a pipeline of investment-ready opportunities.