The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is excited to announce a call for applications for Phase Two of the Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund (SEF 2.0) for the 2025–2026 period. This initiative seeks to identify and support high-potential, undergraduate-led ventures that offer innovative and scalable solutions to pressing community, national, and global development challenges. Selected teams will have the opportunity to participate in an intensive innovation bootcamp and compete for substantial seed funding to bring their ideas to life.Register now for new programs at MK SCHOLARS

SEF 2.0 is a strategic initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, implemented through its Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda in collaboration with BAG Technologies. These institutions aim to nurture a vibrant, multidisciplinary ecosystem of student-led social and business enterprises that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), and Vision 2050.

BENEFITS

Successful applicants will gain access to a comprehensive support package designed to scale their impact, including:

·        Innovation Bootcamp: Participation in the HATANA Innovation Bootcamp (23–28 March 2026), providing intensive entrepreneurship training and mentorship.

·        Grant Funding: The opportunity to competitively win grant funding of up to USD 5,000 to support prototype development and venture implementation.

·        Professional Networking: Connections to industry experts, mentors, and a community of like-minded innovators.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Applicant teams must meet the following mandatory requirements:

·        Student Status: All applicants must be current undergraduate students at the University of Rwanda.

·        Team Composition: Applications must be submitted by teams of 3 to 5 members.

·        Scholar Inclusion: Each team must include at least one Mastercard Foundation Scholar currently enrolled at the University of Rwanda.

·        Gender Diversity: At least 70% of team members must be female.

·        Inclusivity: Teams are encouraged to include refugees, youth with disabilities, and international students.

·        Commitment: Teams must be fully available to attend the HATANA Innovation Bootcamp from 23–28 March 2026.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Teams should prepare the following information for a complete online submission:

·        Problem Statement: A clear description of the community or national challenge being addressed.

·        Proposed Solution: A detailed explanation of the innovation model and expected social or economic impact.

·        Team Profile: Full and accurate details of all team members, including their specific roles and responsibilities.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

The selection process follows a structured, three-stage approach:

1.     Preparation: Teams should review eligibility requirements and designate a team leader.

2.     Submission: The team leader must complete the official online application form

3.     Selection: Applications will undergo administrative screening followed by a technical evaluation of feasibility, scalability, and alignment with national priorities.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

·        Registration: Teams may apply with or without a legally registered business idea.

·        Multidisciplinary Approach: Projects that demonstrate a multidisciplinary approach in design and composition are strongly encouraged.

·        Inquiries: For clarifications or assistance in connecting with Mastercard Foundation Scholars for team formation, contact Dr. Alphonse Nshimiyimana at a.nshimiyimanal@ur.ac.rw.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

All applications must be submitted by 06 March 2026 at 23:59 (CAT).