Zim GBC News | Business Hub
HARARE – Old Mutual Zimbabwe’s Eight2Five Innovation Hub has officially launched the sixth edition of its Value Creation Challenge (VCC), expanding its reach to youth-led startups and small businesses across the nation through a nationwide outreach programme aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and job creation.
The initiative, which has opened applications for aspiring and established entrepreneurs, is supported by a coalition of partners including the British Council and the British Embassy, who have been involved since the challenge’s inception. New partners joining the effort in 2025 include the Zimbabwe Agricultural Development Trust (ZADT), the Swiss Embassy, and SNV Netherlands.
The Value Creation Challenge focuses on four key pillars deemed critical for Zimbabwe’s economic future: innovative technology, creative industries, emerging industries, and sustainability. Organizers have commenced a nationwide tour designed to ensure broad awareness and equal access to the opportunity, providing on-the-ground workshops to assist with registrations and offer business training. The tour, which began in Mutoko, is scheduled to conclude at the Harare Institute of Technology on April 15.
Dr. Lloyd Anderson, Country Director for the British Council in Zimbabwe, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to nurturing talent, particularly within the creative sector.
“As a proud partner in the Value Creation Challenge, the British Council is committed to empowering Zimbabwe’s creative industries,” said Dr. Anderson.
“By providing essential resources, mentorship and opportunities for collaboration, we are not only nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs but also fostering a vibrant artistic community that is vital for the nation’s economic growth and innovation.”
Last year, the challenge saw participation from 725 young entrepreneurs. Building on that momentum, this year’s programme aims to cast an even wider net, strengthening Zimbabwe’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting youth innovation and business development.
Lillian Mbayiwa, Old Mutual Zimbabwe’s Head of Group Marketing, Public Affairs and Sustainability, emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative in addressing national challenges.
“By empowering emerging businesses with essential resources, mentorship and funding, the Value Creation Challenge will foster a new generation of leaders poised to tackle the country’s challenges head-on,” said Mbayiwa.
Since its inception, the programme has distinguished itself by offering more than just funding. It provides a comprehensive support system including mentorship, training, and vital networking opportunities that link entrepreneurs with investors, industry experts, and potential collaborators.
Old Mutual Zimbabwe states that entrepreneurship remains a central pillar of its responsible business strategy and long-term vision for economic transformation.
For more details on where to register for the business clinics at a location near you, follow Eight2Five pages on social media @eight2fivehub or visit www.vcc.co.zw.
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