Eight2Five Innovation Hub Launches Sixth Value Creation Challenge to Empower Zimbabwean Entrepreneurs

The Eight2Five Innovation Hub, powered by Old Mutual Zimbabwe, has officially launched the sixth edition of its award winning Value Creation Challenge, a programme designed to support and grow Zimbabwe’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. This year the initiative aims to reach a broader audience by engaging startups and businesses led by youths, women and persons with disabilities across the country. To achieve this goal the Eight2Five team has embarked on a nationwide tour to educate aspiring entrepreneurs about the opportunities available through the programme. The outreach campaign focuses on helping innovators understand how they can access mentorship, training and funding through the challenge. Organisers believe that expanding access to the programme will unlock new ideas and strengthen Zimbabwe’s culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Partnerships remain central to the success and growth of the Value Creation Challenge. The British Council and the British Embassy have supported the initiative since its inception and continue to play a key role in empowering young entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe. In 2025 the programme expanded its network of collaborators with the addition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Development Trust, the Swiss Embassy and SNV Netherlands. These partnerships have strengthened the programme’s ability to provide resources, mentorship and networking opportunities to participants. According to Dr Lloyd Anderson, the British Council Country Director for Zimbabwe, the partnership aims to empower the country’s creative industries while nurturing entrepreneurs who will contribute to economic growth and innovation.

The Value Creation Challenge has already demonstrated its ability to engage large numbers of aspiring entrepreneurs. Last year about 725 youths participated in the programme, a figure that organisers hope to surpass in the current edition. The nationwide outreach tour began in Mutoko and will conclude at the Harare Institute of Technology on April 15. Throughout the tour workshops are being conducted to help entrepreneurs understand the application process and submit high quality proposals. Participants also receive practical business training designed to help them develop sustainable enterprises that can compete in the modern economy.

During the workshops entrepreneurs are introduced to key concepts that support business growth and innovation. The programme focuses on helping participants refine their business models, improve strategic planning and strengthen their ability to attract investment. Entrepreneurs are also encouraged to recognise the power of innovation and entrepreneurship in transforming communities and creating employment opportunities. By equipping participants with these tools the programme aims to build a generation of business leaders who can contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s economic development. Organisers emphasise that entrepreneurship has the potential to reshape the country’s economic landscape through innovation and job creation.

Old Mutual Zimbabwe has placed entrepreneurship at the centre of its responsible business strategy. According to Lillian Mbayiwa, Head of Group Marketing, Public Affairs and Sustainability, the Value Creation Challenge is designed to support emerging businesses with mentorship, funding opportunities and strategic guidance. She explained that the programme focuses on four key pillars which include innovative technology, creative industries, emerging industries and sustainability. These pillars provide a framework that helps entrepreneurs develop businesses capable of addressing modern challenges while contributing to long term economic growth. Through expert mentorship and access to industry networks the programme helps participants transform ideas into viable ventures.

Since its launch the Value Creation Challenge has evolved into one of Zimbabwe’s most influential entrepreneurship platforms. Participants benefit from expert guidance, specialised training and valuable connections with investors and industry leaders. These opportunities allow startups to refine their strategies and expand their reach within local and international markets. The programme also highlights the importance of collaboration between the private sector, development partners and government institutions in building a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem. As the sixth edition progresses organisers expect it to inspire even more young innovators to pursue business ideas that create value for society.

The launch of the sixth Value Creation Challenge reflects a strong commitment to empowering Zimbabwe’s next generation of entrepreneurs. By expanding its outreach and strengthening partnerships the programme continues to provide a platform for innovation, creativity and business development. As participants gain access to mentorship, training and funding opportunities they are better equipped to transform ideas into impactful enterprises. The initiative stands as a clear example of how collaboration and investment in young entrepreneurs can drive economic transformation. With nationwide engagement underway the Value Creation Challenge is set to play an even greater role in shaping Zimbabwe’s future business leaders.