Kenyan Startups Can Now Expand to the UK with the Startup 360 Connect Program

The Startup 360 Connect Program is an initiative aimed at supporting high-potential startups from Kenya and East Africa, enabling them to expand their businesses internationally. Backed by the UK Government, this program provides startups with access to investors, mentors, and essential resources to accelerate their global reach. With a particular focus on Fintech, Agri-tech, Cybersecurity, Climate-tech, and Health-tech, the initiative seeks to empower ventures that address critical global challenges.

Who Can Apply?

The program is designed for startups that meet the following criteria:

1. Industry Focus

• The startup should operate in high-impact industries such as Fintech, Agri-tech, Cybersecurity, Climate-tech, or Health-tech.
• The business should drive measurable impact and deliver sustainable returns.

2. Growth Potential

• Seed-stage startups: Must have achieved a minimum viable product (MVP) and be on the path to product-market fit, with funding between $250,000 and $5 million.
• Series A startups: Companies with significant revenue growth and scalable business models, seeking funding between $5 million and $15 million.

Key indicators for eligibility include:

• 50%+ return customers or referrals.
• Efficient customer acquisition cost to lifetime value (CAC:LTV) ratio.
• Repeatable sales processes.

3. Market Traction

• B2B startups: Must have signed contracts, pilot projects, or letters of intent.
• B2C startups: Must demonstrate traction through active users, recurring revenue, and strong retention rates.

4. Investment Readiness

Startups should have clear financial history, goals, and strategies for utilizing funds. Must be prepared to raise seed funding in the UK or attract Series A venture capital.

5. Location and Commitment

Startups must be headquartered in Kenya or East Africa with international expansion plans. Founders should be fully committed to the program, which runs from March to June 2025.

6. Technical Expertise

At least one founding team member must have a strong technical background. The business should be tech-enabled, focusing on disrupting traditional markets.

7. Diversity and Inclusion

The program gives special consideration to underrepresented founders, including women, youth, and people with disabilities. Startups should align with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.

Program Benefits

The Startup 360 Connect Program offers a wide range of benefits to help startups scale internationally. These include:

1. Access to UK-Based Venture Capital

The UK has a strong investment ecosystem, with a significant number of angel investors and private capital firms. UK investors benefit from zero tax on capital gains if they exit within three years, making them more open to high-growth startups.

2. Fast-Track Global Expansion

The UK is a strategic gateway to global markets, providing access to the shared legal framework of Commonwealth countries. The program simplifies IP protection and fundraising processes in the UK.

Startups may qualify for unique listing opportunities on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) under the Alternative Investment Markets (AIM) program.

3. Mentorship and Strategic Networking

Participants will benefit from mentorship, industry insights, and networking opportunities from key partners, including:

• Global Entrepreneurship Program (GEP) DealMaker
• UK Kenya Tech Hub (UKKTH)
• London & Partners

The strategic time zone alignment between Kenya and the UK ensures seamless collaboration and business operations.

How to Apply

If you’re a Kenyan or East African startup looking to expand globally, this is a unique opportunity to connect with investors, receive mentorship, and position your business for international success.

Startups interested in applying for the program can do so via the official registration link here.

The Startup 360 Connect Program is a game-changer for Kenyan and East African startups looking to make a mark on the global stage. Don’t miss out on this transformational opportunity!