Entrepreneurship can drive inclusive economic growth and create employment opportunities. However, entrepreneurs with disabilities face significant barriers. These include limited access to finance due to biases, inadequate support networks, lack of tailored resources, and societal stigmas. These challenges collectively create an unsupportive environment that hinders entrepreneurs' potential to start and grow successful businesses.

To address these challenges and unlock the untapped potential of entrepreneurs with disabilities, the SEED Inclusivity Program will provide comprehensive support through capacity building, access to financing pathways, and ecosystem development. This initiative draws on Seedstars’ successful collaboration with MADA (Assistive Technology Center Qatar) in the MENA region, which focused on enhancing digital access for persons with disabilities and the elderly. That program identified and promoted innovative solutions, improving access to education, cultural activities, and various services. The SEED Inclusivity Program aims to replicate and expand on this success, fostering digital inclusion and driving social impact in Asia by supporting entrepreneurs who are developing accessible technologies and services.

"At Seedstars, we've witnessed the transformative power of inclusive entrepreneurship," said Alisée de Tonnac, Co-Founder and CEO of Seedstars. "The SEED Inclusivity Program builds on our experience and represents our long-term commitment to breaking down barriers. We're not just providing resources; we're cultivating an ecosystem where entrepreneurs with disabilities can innovate and create lasting impact across Asia."

Over the next three years, the SEED Inclusivity Program aims to support 45 high-impact founders through its comprehensive Seedstars Growth Program. Divided into three cohorts of 15, participants will have access to digital content, expert-led masterclasses, one-on-one mentorship, hands-on learning, and support from disability experts.

The program is designed to be inclusive and diverse with a goal to have 40% of participants be entrepreneurs with disabilities and 30% be women-led businesses. All participating ventures will focus on developing innovative solutions that benefit people with disabilities. Additionally, the program will run advocacy campaigns and workshops to foster understanding of disability challenges and drive collaboration, engaging diverse stakeholders including businesses, investors, and ecosystem enablers.

"At Visa Foundation, we believe that everyone, everywhere should have the opportunity to thrive, ," said Graham Macmillan, President of Visa Foundation. "We are proud to partner with Seedstars on this important initiative, which aligns perfectly with our mission to support inclusive economies. By empowering diverse entrepreneurs, we can help create a more equitable and accessible future for all. I am excited to see the innovative solutions and positive impact that will emerge from this program."

Entrepreneurs with disabilities and disability-focused businesses in India, Indonesia, and Vietnam are encouraged to apply for the SEED Inclusivity Program. Applications are now open, and interested candidates can learn more and apply at seedinclusivity.com. The deadline for applications is October 20, 2024.

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ABOUT SEEDSTARS

Seedstars is a Swiss-based company with a mission to impact people’s lives in emerging markets through technology and entrepreneurship. Seedstars works with the private and public sectors to implement entrepreneurial capacity-building programs in order to create jobs and fuel economic growth.

The group runs Seedstars Programs that are designed to support entrepreneurs in varying stages of growth via training, education, mentoring, and access to resources. The company also partners, operates and invests in emerging venture capital funds in emerging markets and makes direct co- and follow-on investments in their portfolio companies through Seedstars Capital. To further support the next generation of changemakers, Seedstars Academy, a talent incubator, provides digital skills and startup-based immersive education.

Through these initiatives and partnerships, Seedstars is building a world-class community and network of changemakers in over 90 emerging ecosystems. For more information, visit https://www.seedstars.com/.

CONTACTS

Program

Archie Moberly

Program Manager

[email protected]

Media

Michaela Villaroman
Media Relations

[email protected].