Phase 2 of the project Women Stand Up / Umukenyezi Wagaciro started with a key step: the selection of the first cohort of women entrepreneurs. The call for applications generated a strong response, with over 180 women candidates wishing to join the incubator. Among them, the most promising projects were selected based on their economic potential, feasibility, and their ability to contribute to the economic empowerment of women.
In a room filled with laughter, papers, and business projects, the support for 18 entrepreneurs officially began. The first selected candidates gathered to start the pre-incubation training, the first step in their journey towards the women’s business incubator.
From July 14 to 16, 2026, the first participants met simultaneously in Bujumbura and Kayanza for three days of intensive training. Coming from the municipalities of Mukaza, Ntahangwa, Kayanza, and Matongo, these women with projects began to transform their ideas into real entrepreneurial opportunities.
During this first stage of their incubation journey, they learned to better structure their ideas, clarify their business model, and start to form a true support network among entrepreneurs.
Beyond the exercises and the filled documents around the table, what marked this first session was the energy of the group. Between two training modules, the exchanges, the encouragements, and laughter reminded us of the very essence of the program: to give women not only technical tools but also a space to grow together, in confidence.
For six months, this 1st cohort will benefit from intensive and personalized support: training, coaching, networking, and access to funding to transform their promising ideas into solid and sustainable businesses.
This pre-incubation is just the starting point. Stay tuned in the coming weeks to follow the evolution of their projects.
Women Standing / Umukenyezi Wagaciro is an incubation program funded by Pain For the World (PPLM), dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs.
