For over 15 years, I&F Entrepreneuriat has been helping entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas through the business creation process. Through its programs and activities, it has supported over 1,000 entrepreneurs.
I&F Entrepreneuriat, established in 2007 with collaborative guidance from the Institut de la Francophonie pour l'Entrepreneuriat (Mauritius), the University of Bordeaux (France), and Incubateur régional d'Aquitaine (France), is a dedicated organization supporting entrepreneurs in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Currently led by Val Masamba, an entrepreneur with decades of experience, the organization's core activities encompass training, incubation, mentoring, and financing of innovative projects designed to have a substantial social impact. Boasting over 15 years of experience, I&F Entrepreneuriat has successfully incubated 1,456 companies, including 803 initiated by individuals under the age of 35, with 39% being young women. These companies operate across diverse sectors such as agribusiness, high technology, building materials production, and information and communication technologies.
"I&F Entrepreneuriat is dedicated to the transfer of technology and aims to foster the promotion and development of a systematic approach to detecting, evaluating, economically validating, and supporting both innovative business startups and existing companies—whether or not they are linked to scientific research. This mission is carried out within the framework of a collaborative incubation and incubator structure," the organization explains on its website.
Its incubation program spans 12 to 18 months, adapting to the unique progress of each project. It opens its doors to aspiring entrepreneurs, providing them with physical and legal accommodation, comprehensive support, coaching and mentoring, entrepreneurial and managerial training, and ongoing refinement courses. I&F Entrepreneuriat aids entrepreneurs in constructing their business models and plans, integrates them into business networks and offers post-creation follow-up.
In the post-creation phase, I&F Entrepreneuriat extends its support through a comprehensive incubator. This phase assists new entrepreneurs in setting up and launching their businesses, conducting initial recruitment, establishing relationships with customers and suppliers, managing accounting, negotiating with market players, overseeing bank accounts, participating in trade fairs and conferences for product promotion, and implementing effective marketing strategies.
Finally, I&F Entrepreneuriat's incubation journey culminates in an industrial district designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). This environment serves as a springboard for incubated entrepreneurs, providing them with the resources and infrastructure needed to thrive. From shared workspace and production facilities to mentorship programs and networking opportunities, the district fosters collaboration and growth, ultimately leading to high-impact, sustainable businesses that empower DR Congo.
Melchior Koba
