Since its inception in 2019, Orange Corners Senegal has become a stepping stone for aspiring Senegalese entrepreneurs looking to transform their ideas into viable businesses. The fifth cohort, based in Dakar and implemented by Haske Ventures, has recently concluded, showcasing remarkable achievements and growth among its participants.
From the outset, the cohort showcased an impressive level of diversity and inclusivity. Almost half of the participants were female, reflecting our commitment to gender equality. Geographically, the participants were predominantly from Dakar, but out of 17 entrepreneurs three were also based in Saint-Louis. And rather than focusing on just one sector, incubatees came from different backgrounds: fashion, IT, agriculture, education, healthcare and more.
Empowering entrepreneurs through structured support
For six months, the entrepreneurs of the fifth Orange Corners Senegal cohort participated in a series of training sessions, masterclasses and workshops designed to address good business practices, which significantly contributed to their personal and business growth. Leadership sessions and mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs boosted their confidence to take bold next steps.
Growing profitable businesses
Orange Corners didn’t only have profound impact on the entrepreneurial mindset of our incubatees, but also on their business growth. Several participants introduced new or significantly improved products and services. Maela Cherif Ndiaye (Complexe Uzuri) pivoted her business to launch a unique line of gourmet cosmetics, successfully generating $500 in just two weeks after launching. Mouhamadou Mor Beye (Multiservices Agricoles) doubled his production capacity, gaining nearly 150 new clients. Cherif Diallo (PointelRH) secured new contracts with major clients in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire. On average, participants increased their monthly revenues by 500%, with one business (Kartoon Africa) even managing an impressive 4,100%!
The programme’s impact on job creation was also significant. In just six months, participants collectively increased their workforce by 17. For example, Papa Isaac François Mbow’s Eco-Tri Senegal expanded its team from 8 to 12 employees. And this is just the beginning: As these businesses continue to thrive, they’re likely to employ even more young Senegalese in the future.
Participants also made notable strides in securing funding, with Isaac Mbow’s Eco-Tri successfully raising as much as 8,310,000 FCFA (approximately 12,680 euros). Additionally, the cohort collectively increased their partnerships from 25 at the programme’s outset to 41 by its conclusion. Hamet Sow’s Intersip delivers services to rural populations in local languages using SMS and voice solutions with real-time tracking. He already collaborates with major NGOs as ChildFund International and UNICEF to serve 130,000+ beneficiaries in five countries. His success even earned him a spot to represent Senegal at the GEC+ Africa competition.
Sikoti Mbaitjongue, one of the incubatees, expressed how Orange Corners profoundly changed her view of entrepreneurship. “The programme strengthened our commitment to developing Sokolata by placing our customers and their need for reconnection at the heart of our priorities,” she said. In the course of the programme, Sikoti’s business Sokolata saw a sevenfold increase in revenue and formed three international partnerships.
Thanks to the constant support and the structured development environment of Orange Corners, these entrepreneurs are now ready to make significant contributions to local and global markets.
Aissatou Niaria, Programme Manager Orange Corners Senegal
Conclusion
The fifth cohort of Orange Corners Senegal exemplifies the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and diversity within Senegal. The range of innovative projects, from education and IT to fashion and healthcare, underscores a shared commitment to driving positive social and economic change.
Orange Corners Senegal Programme Manager Aissatou Niaria: “The six months I spent working alongside the 17 entrepreneurs in the fifth cohort of Orange Corners Senegal have been an enriching experience. Despite a challenging context and the need to iterate to maintain their commitment, we’ve seen significant progress and impressive growth! Thanks to constant support and a structured development environment, these entrepreneurs are now ready to make significant contributions to local and global markets. Their ability to innovate and persevere in the face of challenges is admirable, and I’m convinced that they’ll continue to make a difference in their communities and beyond.”
