Deadline Date: December 15, 2025
The Venture Meda Acceleration 2025 Program invites digital and e-commerce startups in Ethiopia to apply for an opportunity designed to transform high-potential businesses into scalable, job-creating enterprises.
The program is a national initiative delivered in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, and implemented by iceaddis. Submitting the mandatory application form signifies agreement to the program’s requirements and participation guidelines.
Venture Meda aims to strengthen the role of digital platforms in driving economic growth while directly addressing the country’s pressing need for job creation. By targeting startups that leverage technology to solve local challenges, the program seeks to empower emerging entrepreneurs with business advisory services, market linkages and initial seed funding. Selected businesses will enter a six-month incubation experience designed to enhance operational capacity, improve product quality, expand networks and unlock meaningful employment opportunities.
The accelerator welcomes applications from a wide range of sectors that benefit from digital transformation. These include digital services, agriculture and agribusiness, hospitality, human capital development, logistics, FMCG retail, manufacturing, construction and finishing, telemedicine, social enterprises, creative industries, online freelancing platforms and business process outsourcing. Any startup using a digital platform and committed to solving community issues while creating jobs is encouraged to apply.
Startups accepted into the program will gain access to an intensive growth-focused environment that combines workshops, bi-weekly one-to-one mentorship and expert technical advisory sessions. Participants will refine their business models, strengthen market strategies, improve operational efficiency and shape long-term revenue and customer acquisition plans. The program also places strong emphasis on investment readiness, helping founders build financial plans, secure growth financing, pursue strategic partnerships and map out clear expansion pathways. Visibility is another core benefit, with curated networking events, demo days and pitching sessions offering exposure to investors, industry leaders and potential collaborators.
Throughout the program, participating startups will have full access to iceaddis’s co-working space and facilities, including Wi-Fi. In addition to training and mentorship, each selected startup will receive seed funding to accelerate its development. Venture Meda 2025 offers a unique opportunity for young entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses, expand their impact and contribute to Ethiopia’s growing digital economy.
For more information, visit Venture Meda.
