Startups for Agroecology in Uganda

How can young businesses help build sustainable food systems? The Rootical startup studio, supported by Biovision, guides entrepreneurs in Uganda in developing forward-thinking startups in agroecology – from the first idea to market entry.

Context: Bridging the Gap in Agroecological Entrepreneurship

Many people in East Africa have innovative ideas for sustainable businesses, yet few receive the necessary support to turn their visions into successful enterprises. The agroecology sector, in particular, lacks financing opportunities and networks. Many businesses fail at an early stage due to limited knowledge of sustainable value chains, restricted market access, and financial constraints. The Rootical startup studio, supported by Biovision, offers aspiring entrepreneurs in Uganda structured guidance. Through a multi-stage process, they are supported from idea development to business launch.

Goals: Building Sustainable Business Models

The project aims to:

Support 180 entrepreneurs in establishing sustainable agricultural businesses.

Develop at least 18 startups that provide innovative solutions for sustainable farming and food systems.

Enhance value creation in agroecology by linking businesses with smallholder farmers.

Ensure long-term viability by creating a model that facilitates future agroecological startups.

At a glance

Project name:

Rootical

Beneficiaries:
Uganda

Partner organizations:

Rootical, SHONA

Participants:
Consumers
Entrepreneur
Konsument:innen
Unternehmer:innen

Project Officer:

Thomas Kuyper

Project phase:
2024-2027

The project addresses the following SDGs from UN Agenda 2030:

Region

Subsahara-Afrika

Impact: First Successes for Startups in Uganda

The Rootical program has already made tangible progress:

Targeted training and workshops have equipped participants with essential entrepreneurial skills.

40 entrepreneurs have completed an intensive program, analyzing food system challenges and developing solutions.

The first successful startups have been launched, focusing on sustainable farming inputs, regenerative agriculture, and improved food distribution.

Next Steps: A Sustainable Model for the Future

Rootical will continue to support young entrepreneurs in establishing sustainable startups in the agricultural and food sector. The focus remains on expanding support for founders, strengthening knowledge transfer, and improving access to financing and networks.

At the same time, the lessons learned so far will be used to further refine the model and scale it to additional regions. Starting in 2026, the model is planned to expand to another East African country. Through strong partnerships and increasing collaboration between entrepreneurs, markets, and investors, Rootical and Biovision aim to sustainably strengthen agroecology in East Africa.

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To support this project or get further information, please contact

Sharon Nehrenheim

Head of Communication & Fundraising, Member of the Executive Committee

E-mail

+41 44 512 58 13

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