Nurturing local entrepreneurship, Le Boukarou fosters innovation through its incubation efforts and groundbreaking initiatives. Its success in supporting entrepreneurs across Africa serves as a powerful testament to its unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Founded in 2016 and led by Jean-Patrick Ketcha, a member of Afric'Innov's Board of Directors and the Strategic Orientation Board of the Francophone Employability Center, Le Boukarou stands as a beacon of entrepreneurial empowerment. Guided by a mission to propel enterprising youth onto the forefront of the Cameroonian and African economy, the incubator diligently nurtures budding entrepreneurs through a comprehensive array of support services.
Le Boukarou's commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success manifests in a diverse range of activities and programs meticulously tailored to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to transform their ideas into businesses. From coaching and mentoring to business development guidance, startup support, training, and networking opportunities, the incubator provides a holistic approach to nurturing entrepreneurial growth.
Acknowledging the importance of fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurial ventures, Le Boukarou has established a well-equipped and user-friendly coworking space, fostering collaboration and innovation among its vibrant community of entrepreneurs.
"Our operational approach centers on working closely with young people, guiding them from the initial structuring of their ideas to the operationalization of their projects, culminating in the development of their businesses. We recognize that businesses cannot thrive in isolation. Therefore, our ambition is to forge lasting and effective partnerships with all relevant stakeholders, including state institutions, media outlets, scientific and technical units, investors, and international organizations," the incubator indicates on its website.
Le Boukarou's support extends to a wide spectrum of fields, encompassing agriculture and food security, cultural and creative industries, the circular economy, the environment, water and energy, mobility, sustainable cities, and education, among others.
The incubator's initiatives include the renowned Bouka Club program, designed to enhance youth employability through targeted training and entrepreneurial skills development. Additionally, Le Boukarou offers the Bouka Seeds program, providing financial support to young Cameroonian value creators. One of the entrepreneurs it supported is Arthur Zang, the engineer behind the groundbreaking connected electrocardiogram called CardioPad.
Since its inception, Le Boukarou has supported over 40 startups, positively impacting the lives of more than 42,000 individuals. With five impactful programs reaching over 1,000 participants, the incubator's presence extends across Bamenda, Douala, Maroua, and Garoua. Its endeavors are supported by a network of partners, including Total Energies, the French Institute, UNDP, the French Embassy in Cameroon, and the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF).
Melchior Koba
