1. What is timbuktoo?

timbuktoo is UNDP's pan-African innovative and far-reaching initiative to spark a start-up revolution in Africa. It was launched by the UNDP Administrator, Mr. Achim Steiner and the UNDP Regional Director for Africa, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, together with the Presidents of Rwanda and Ghana at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Since its inception, timbuktoo has rapidly established itself as a key player in the African innovation ecosystem, with the registration of the Foundation, the launch of the Fintech Hub in Lagos, Nigeria, and the establishment of University Innovation Pods (UniPods) across Africa. timbuktoo aims to address critical gaps and work with African governments, investors, corporates, and universities, to support the African startup ecosystem.  

2. What does timbuktoo offer?

timbuktoo’s ambition is to mobilize and invest US$ 1 billion of catalytic and commercial capital to transform 100 million livelihoods and create 10 million dignified new jobs. Seeking to spark the African innovation ecosystem, the timbuktoo initiative supports and invests in Africa’s top talent through the creation of University Innovation Pods (UniPods) across Africa. UniPods are innovation spaces situated within tertiary institutions that are equipped with machinery and tools for innovators to develop and test products and services. timbuktoo also involves the establishment of thematic hubs across Africa, each specializing in one of the following sectors: Agritech, Creatives, Fintech, Greentech, Healthtech, Trade, Smart Cities/Mobility and Tourismtech / Edtech, Manutech and Minetech. The 10 thematic hubs will provide a range of programmes and offerings to support and scale impactful startups. It seeks to create a future where innovation is encouraged, ingenuity is supported, and prosperity is shared.  

3. What is the ManuTech Hub?

The timbuktoo ManuTech Hub is one of the 10 thematic hubs of the timbuktoo initiative, which will incubate and accelerate startups that leverage technology to address Manufacturing challenges across the continent. This Hub provides a platform for innovators to collaborate, create, and scale impactful solutions that improve manufacturing productivity and efficiency in Africa. The timbuktoo ManuTech Hub is in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Offering a physical space with state-of-the-art equipment and remote services, it functions as a venture studio with product design, co-working, and branding facilities.  

4. What startups are categorized as ManuTech startups?

ManuTech startups, short for Manufacturing technology startups, are companies that develop tools and processes that enhance efficiency, quality, and productivity in manufacturing. These technologies range from smart factories and IoT to data analytics, product design, and predictive maintenance that form the basis of the fourth industrial revolution.

5. What is the timbuktoo ManuTech Startup Accelerator Programme?  

It is a 1-month bootcamp and a 4months acceleration program hosted virtually and in person at the timbuktoo ManuTech Hub in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It focuses on providing industry specific technical support and up to $25,000 USD in grants.

6. Are unregistered startups eligible to apply to the ManuTech bootcamp program?  

Yes, startups without formal business registration documentation can apply to the timbuktoo ManuTech Startup Accelerator Program.

7. What type of startups is the ManuTech hub looking for?

The Hub is interested in African startups that utilize technology to solve challenges in the productivity and efficiency of the manufacturing industry. With this, the Hub aims to nurture startups that are developing cutting-edge technologies that can be scaled to make a significant impact across Africa.

8. Where can I get more information about the ManuTech Hub Programme?

For more detailed information, visit the official website or follow UNDP Africa and UNDP Rwanda on social media platforms for the latest updates and announcements.