Pharo Ventures Studio, a hub for innovative agricultural solutions, has been launched in Rwanda. The studio, part of the Pharo Foundation, aims to support entrepreneurs with experience in agriculture who have ideas that can solve problems such as low productivity, post-harvest losses, and value addition. The studio has been opened in Kigali, Rwanda, following the establishment of similar studios in Ethiopia, Somaliland, Kenya, and Nigeria.
The Pharo Ventures Studio in Rwanda is now accepting applications from entrepreneurs with innovative ideas that can address agricultural challenges. The selected projects will receive support, including $150,000 in venture building capital, to help them establish themselves as businesses. The studio's goal is to provide a comprehensive support system, including expertise in marketing, law, and other areas, to help entrepreneurs overcome common challenges.
According to Armel, the coordinator of Pharo Ventures Studios in Kigali, applicants will be required to provide their profiles and experience in agriculture, as well as respond to specific questions. The selected projects will be those that demonstrate a deep understanding of the challenges facing the agricultural sector and have the potential to provide innovative solutions.
The Pharo Ventures Studio will focus on three main areas: increasing productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and adding value to agricultural products. The studio aims to support entrepreneurs who have ideas that can address these challenges and provide sustainable solutions. The selected projects will be supported by a team of experts who will provide guidance and mentorship.
Cristophe Nteziryayo, an expert in agricultural development and investment, attended the launch of Pharo Ventures Studio in Kigali. He noted that the studio's focus on addressing the challenges facing the agricultural sector in Rwanda is a positive step towards sustainable development. He emphasized the need for innovative solutions that can increase productivity, reduce losses, and add value to agricultural products.
In Rwanda, post-harvest losses are estimated to be between 13% and 40%, resulting in significant losses for farmers. The government has set a goal to reduce these losses to at least 5%. The Pharo Ventures Studio aims to contribute to this goal by supporting entrepreneurs who have innovative solutions to address these challenges.
The Pharo Ventures Studio will take equity in the selected projects, with the percentage of equity determined by the project's progress and the agreement reached with the entrepreneurs. The studio aims to support at least three to four projects, which will be selected from a pool of applicants. The application process is now open and will close on October 11, 2026.
Key points
- Pharo Ventures Studio offers $150,000 to innovative agricultural solutions that address low productivity, post-harvest losses, and value addition.
