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Privacy Policy

Program Overview:

The STEP Project (the "Project") is designed to support and enhance the growth and development of early-stage startups and tech talent. It may include educational workshops, mentorship opportunities, networking events, and other activities. By applying to and participating in the Program, you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions (the "Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not access or use the Website.

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Definitions

  • "Organizers" means the Program administrators and staff.
  • "Participant" means a startup or individual accepted into the Program.
  • "Program" includes all activities, events, and resources provided.
  • “STEP” Startups and Talent Enhancement Program.

Eligibility and Program Terms

Participants in the Program must meet the following eligibility criteria:

For STARTUPS

  • Business must be registered as a limited liability company in Nigeria (proof of registration required)
  • Must have 2 co-founders minimum with at least 1 in a tech/product role
  • Business falls under tech or tech-enabled sectors including but not limited to fintech, healthtech, edtech
  • Operational for at least 6 months with initial product/Minimum Viable Product (MVP) developed
  • Completion of a reputable startup accelerator/incubator program will be an advantage
  • Have raised a seed round of funding or generated initial revenue/users
  • Provide a 2-page executive summary of business idea, product/market fit, revenue model, competition
  • Pitch deck to introduce the business concept to the STEP panel
  • Submit a complete application, including all required information and materials
  • Be approved for participation by the Program selection committee

For TALENT

  • Must be over 18 years of age
  • Must have formal /tertiary education in computer science, engineering or related field
  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g. Java, Python, PHP etc.)
  • Portfolio of personal or work-related tech projects
  • Resume/CV highlighting tech skills and experience
  • Have experience working with both startups and established tech companies
  • Have clocked approximately 5400+ working hours (3+ years) in their tech career
  • Have been involved in various projects, from e-commerce platforms and content management systems to custom web applications
  • Have experience working in a cross-functional team
  • Be aspiring to advance to a senior-level position and possibly transition into a leadership or tech mentorship role in the future
  • Enjoy contributing to open-source projects, attending tech meetups and networking events, and reading to stay updated on industry trends
  • Submit a complete application, including all required information and materials
  • Be approved for participation by the Program selection committee
  • Show potential in the chosen field and actively seek career development opportunities
  • Must be willing to comply with Program rules and guidelines

Exclusion Criteria

The following entities shall be ineligible to participate:

  • Individuals engaged in full-time employment or student enrollment
  • Businesses operating as agencies or consulting services
  • Entities involved in unethical or illegal activities
  • Parties with undisclosed or significant conflicts of interest

Participants found to be in violation of these criteria shall be disqualified from consideration.

Application and Selection Process

The application and selection process for the Program is at the sole discretion of the STEP Project. We reserve the right to accept or reject any application for any reason or no reason at all. Selection will be based on strengths of experience, skills, portfolio quality, product viability and founders' capacity/passion. Decisions made by the selection committee are final and not subject to appeal.

Participant Obligations

As a participant in the Program, you agree to the following:

For All Participants:

  • Attend skills development workshops/talks
  • Participate in mentoring and feedback sessions
  • Complete assigned tasks and projects on time
  • Provide regular updates on work/progress to program managers
  • Maintain high standards of integrity and conduct
  • Commit fully to program activities for the duration of acceptance
  • Actively engage in and contribute to the Program activities to the best of your ability
  • Assistance with tools/resources required for projects
  • Comply with NDA and IP assignment agreements