UCC issues call for Incubation Support Initiative proposals from Ugandan IT innovators

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a call for proposals from the country’s IT innovators for the Incubation Support Initiative (ISI) a strategic mechanism through which promising and emerging ICT businesses as well as ‘high impact’ ICT innovations can be financially supported in advancing communications services in Uganda.

Per a post on UCC’s official website, applicants are required to complete the requisite Application form which should then be placed in a sealed envelope clearly marked “Application for UCC Incubation Support Initiative grant”.

Ugandans (individuals or organisations) should apply for financial assistance if they have any of the following:

An innovative concept that applies or seeks to develop broadcasting, postal or telecommunications services and which they wish to develop or scale up,

An innovative ICT incubator providing these services:

Linkage of incubates to investors, customers, peer firms and specialised innovation organizations locally and/or internationally;

Assistance in accessing funding;

Supportive infrastructure such as work space, laboratory facilities, plant and equipment;

Shared services (e.g. internet);

Technical expertise and marketing support;

capacity building in technical and business/entrepreneurship skills.

Funding will be made available on a competitive basis under the following specific categories:

Seed funding: Financial assistance under this category will be provided to a maximum of US$15,000 towards the capital requirements to develop or scale-up a creative concept that is related to the harnessing or development of broadcasting, postal, or telecommunications services.

Incubation Promotion subsidy: Funding under this category shall facilitate the provision of incubation services by an existing incubator to a maximum of US$4,500. Areas for which the subsidy may be given include: Plant and/or equipment for use by incubates, development of laboratories and other testing facilities, specialist resources required by multiple incubates, and Training facilities and resources.

“Applications are to be submitted no later than July 24, 2017 at 5.00pm.” Informed the UCC, via a post publushed on Facebook.