Strengthening support systems for young entrepreneurs was at the center of a productive meeting between TICO and Germany Sparkassenstiftung Eastern Africa, as both organizations explored potential areas of collaboration for the upcoming Entrepreneurial Design Fellowship (EDF) Cohort 4.
The meeting brought together key representatives from Germany Sparkassenstiftung Eastern Africa, including Ruth Madl, Country Director, Jeanne d'Arc Umurerwa, Deputy Country Director and Head of Finance and Administration, and Alphonsine Musabyimana, Financial Education Senior Advisor. Discussions focused on shared priorities around youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development, innovation, and financial education.
As TICO prepares to launch EDF Cohort 4, the conversation highlighted opportunities to work together in creating an enabling environment where young entrepreneurs can access the knowledge, mentorship, and resources needed to transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.
The two organizations expressed a strong commitment to empowering youth and fostering economic opportunities that contribute to Rwanda’s development. The meeting also explored ways in which financial literacy and entrepreneurial capacity building can be integrated into initiatives that support emerging entrepreneurs.
Speaking during the meeting, Ruth Madl, Country Director of Germany Sparkassenstiftung Eastern Africa, welcomed the opportunity to explore collaboration, noting the organization's interest in identifying practical ways to work together in advancing entrepreneurship and youth economic empowerment.
The engagement reflects TICO’s ongoing efforts to build strategic partnerships that strengthen its flagship Entrepreneurial Design Fellowship program and expand its impact among young innovators across the country.
The discussions marked an encouraging step toward a potential partnership that could provide greater opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions, create employment, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
While discussions are still at an early stage, both organizations expressed optimism about the possibilities ahead and the value of working together to support Rwanda’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
As preparations for EDF Cohort 4 continue, TICO remains committed to forging partnerships that drive innovation, unlock opportunities for youth, and create lasting impact within communities across Rwanda.