Q1. What is the STEP Programme?
A1. The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP) is an initiative by Impact Driven Entrepreneurship Advancement (IDEA) Africa Ltd/GTE, in collaboration with the UK Nigeria Tech Hub, aimed at supporting post-MVP and post revenue startups by providing critical talent interventions in areas such as technical debt, growth hacking, marketing, legal and compliance, and strategic planning.
Q2: Who is eligible to join the STEP program?
A2: Post-MVP startups operating in Enugu, Rivers, and Ekiti states with market traction and revenue but facing challenges in technical, marketing, or strategic areas are eligible to apply.
Q3: How can my startup apply for the STEP program?
A3: Startups can apply by filling out the application form on our web app platform and submitting the required documentation. The application process includes an initial screening, followed by a comprehensive audit and then talent matching.
Q4: What kind of support will my startup receive?
A4: Your startup will receive support in any of the following areas; technical debt remediation, growth hacking, marketing strategies, strategic planning, compliance advisory, digital marketing and access to skilled talent in these areas. Additionally, you will benefit from networking opportunities and community engagement events.
Q5: How long is the STEP program?
A5: The STEP program will run for a period of 5 to 6 months, which is from October 2024 to March 2025 with various phases including initiation, planning, execution, and closing.
Q6: Is there a cost to participate in the STEP program?
A6: Participation in the STEP program as a startup is subsidized, with 60% of the talent costs covered by the program’s budget. However, startups will be required to pay 40% of the talent cost. You determine the type and number of talent you require.
Q7: What are the expected outcomes for participating startups?
A7: Participating startups can expect improved product quality, enhanced market presence, strategic growth, increased sustainability and unlocking scale potential. Additionally, startups will benefit from job creation and economic contributions.
Q8: How will my startup be matched with talent?
A8: Talent will be matched with startups based on the specific need areas you highlighted during your registration. We will do an assessment of your needs and match you to the requisite talent required to help close your need gaps thereby ensuring optimal alignment and support.
Q9: What is the application deadline?
A9: Application deadline for Startups is August 31, 2024.
Q1: What is the STEP program?
A1. The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP) is an initiative by Impact Driven Entrepreneurship Advancement (IDEA) Africa Ltd/GTE, in collaboration with the UK Nigeria Tech Hub, aimed at supporting post-MVP and post revenue startups by providing critical talent interventions in areas such as technical debt, growth hacking, marketing, legal and compliance, and strategic planning.
Q2: Who can apply as a talent in the STEP program?
A2. Skilled professionals in technology, marketing, strategy, legal, compliance and risk who are looking to expand their experience and contribute to the growth of startups in Enugu, Rivers, and Ekiti states are encouraged to apply.
Q3: How can I apply to be a talent in the STEP program?
A3. Talent can apply by filling out the application form on our web app platform and submitting their resume and any relevant certifications or work samples.
Q4: What are the benefits of joining the STEP program as a talent?
A4. Benefits include professional development, hands-on experience, skill enhancement, career advancement opportunities, networking with industry experts, and mentorship from experienced professionals.
Q5: How will I be matched with a startup?
A5. Talent will be matched with startups based on their expertise and the specific needs of the startups through a thorough assessment process.
Q6: Is there any compensation for participating as a talent?
A6. Yes, participating talent will receive competitive compensation, which will be structured and paid in installments throughout the program duration.
Q7: What kind of support will I receive during the program?
A7. Talent will receive guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals, as well as support from the project management team to ensure a successful engagement with startups.
Q8: What is the duration of my engagement as a talent in the STEP program?
A8. The engagement will typically last for the duration of the program, which is from October 2024 to March 2025. (5 – 6 months)
Q9: What is the application deadline?
A9. Application deadline for Talent is August 31, 2024.
Q1: What is the STEP program?
A1. The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP) is an initiative by Impact Driven Entrepreneurship Advancement (IDEA) Africa Ltd/GTE, in collaboration with the UK Nigeria Tech Hub, aimed at supporting post-MVP and post revenue startups by providing critical talent interventions in areas such as technical debt, growth hacking, marketing, legal and compliance, and strategic planning.
Q2: Who can become a mentor in the STEP program?
A2. Experienced professionals with a strong background in technology, marketing, legal & compliance, strategic planning, or related fields who are interested in mentoring and supporting the growth of startups.
Q3: How can I apply to be a mentor in the STEP program?
A3. Mentors can apply by filling out the application form on our web app platform and submitting their resume, a brief statement of interest, and relevant professional references.
Q4: What are the benefits of becoming a mentor in the STEP program?
A4. Benefits include the opportunity to contribute to the growth of emerging startups, enhance your professional reputation, connect with other industry experts, and gain personal satisfaction from helping the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Q5: What is expected of me as a mentor in the STEP program?
A5. Mentors are expected to provide guidance, share their expertise, support startups in overcoming challenges, and help them achieve their strategic goals. This may involve regular meetings, providing feedback, and offering strategic advice.
Q6: How will I be matched with startups or talent?
A6. Mentors will be matched with startups or talent based on their expertise and the specific needs of the startups through a detailed assessment process.
Q7: Is there any compensation for mentors?
A7. Yes, participating mentors will receive competitive compensation, which will be structured and paid in installments throughout the program duration.
Q8: How long is the mentorship commitment?
A8. The mentorship commitment will align with the program duration, from October 2024 to March 2025. Specific time commitments will be discussed and agreed upon with the program management team.
Q9: What is the application deadline?
A9. Application deadline for Mentors is August 31, 2024.
Q1: What is the STEP program?
A1. The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP) is an initiative by Impact Driven Entrepreneurship Advancement (IDEA) Africa Ltd/GTE, in collaboration with the UK Nigeria Tech Hub, aimed at supporting post-MVP and post revenue startups by providing critical talent interventions in areas such as technical debt, growth hacking, marketing, legal and compliance, and strategic planning.
Q2: How can hubs participate in the STEP program?
A2. Hubs can participate by partnering with the STEP program to provide facilities, resources, and support for startups, mentors and talent. Interested hubs can reach out through our email enquiry@steptech.ng to express their interest and discuss partnership opportunities.
Q3: What are the benefits for hubs participating in the STEP program?
A3. Benefits include contributing to strengthening the local startup ecosystem, fostering a culture of innovation, leveraging program resources to support hub activities, attracting more startups and talent to the hub, and enhancing the hub’s role as a community leader in entrepreneurship and innovation.
Q4: What is expected of participating hubs?
A4. Participating hubs are expected to provide workspace and resource support for startups, mentors and talent. Hubs will also be involved in hosting community engagement events and facilitating networking opportunities.
Q5: How will the STEP program support participating hubs?
A5. The STEP program will provide resources, promotional support, and opportunities for hubs to engage with startups, talent, and mentors. Hubs will also benefit from increased visibility and the potential for long-term partnerships.
Q6: What kind of resources will be provided to hubs?
A6. Resources may include access to the technology platform, promotional materials, logistical support for events, and financial contributions towards hub activities aligned with the program’s objectives.
Q7: How long will the partnership with hubs last?
A7. The partnership will typically last for the duration of the STEP program, from October 2024 to March 2025. Further collaborations may be explored based on the success of the initial engagement.
Q8: What is the application deadline?
A8. Application deadline for hubs is August 31, 2024.