The fourth edition of the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge recently celebrated the remarkable achievements of Kenyan entrepreneurs. Held at the Serena Hotel in Nairobi, the award ceremony brought together budding innovators and stakeholders to recognize projects with the potential to transform Kenya’s entrepreneurial landscape. This year’s event was part of the company’s centenary celebrations, with 100 winners emerging from 32 countries, representing diverse solutions and impactful ideas from across the globe. Kenya’s three standout startups walked away with a total of Ksh.4.95M, with each winning entrepreneur receiving Ksh.1.65M to fund and scale their projects.
Nurturing Local Innovation through Global Initiatives
TotalEnergies has long been committed to empowering young entrepreneurs through programs such as the Startupper Challenge. Launched to foster innovation and drive sustainable development, the program aims to tackle socioeconomic issues within local communities. As countries across the world work to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), TotalEnergies positions its challenge as a powerful platform for startups that align with these goals.
For the fourth edition, Kenya was one of the 32 participating countries, where thousands of young entrepreneurs submitted their projects in hopes of turning their dreams into reality. A total of 1,296 Kenyan startups entered the competition, demonstrating the strong potential and ambition of the country’s young business minds. The challenge culminated in a rigorous pitching process where 15 finalists presented their ideas to a panel of judges composed of industry experts, business leaders, and TotalEnergies representatives.
Meet the Three Winning Startups
The three Kenyan startups recognized in this year’s edition are tackling some of the country’s most pressing challenges, including sustainable waste management, affordable transportation, and menstrual health. Each winner emerged as a leader in their category, earning them both financial and strategic support from TotalEnergies.
Innov’Up Category: MIDAS CITY
Victor Mwaura won in the Innov’Up category for the best entrepreneur with his company, MIDAS CITY. His startup specializes in transforming metal into bespoke 3D art pieces, creating custom designs for individuals and businesses alike. This project highlights the power of artistic innovation and waste management by utilizing discarded materials for aesthetic and practical purposes. The company’s goal is not only to create beautiful pieces but also to contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing metal waste.
Beyond aesthetics, Mwaura aims to create awareness around the benefits of recycling, demonstrating how waste materials can be transformed into valuable and marketable products. With the support from TotalEnergies, MIDAS CITY will continue its efforts to push the boundaries of sustainable art and design, blending creativity with environmental consciousness.
Cycle’Up Category: ECOBANA LIMITED
In the Cycle’Up category, which focuses on the circular economy, Lennox Ochieng was recognized for his work with ECOBANA LIMITED. ECOBANA manufactures biodegradable sanitary towels using banana fibers, offering an innovative and environmentally friendly solution to menstrual health. By harnessing locally available materials, ECOBANA not only addresses period poverty, a significant challenge in many parts of Africa, but also supports environmental sustainability by providing a biodegradable product.
The biodegradable sanitary towels offer an alternative to the plastic-based sanitary products typically available in the market, which often pose environmental hazards due to improper disposal. With its roots in circular economy principles, ECOBANA aims to empower women by offering affordable, sustainable menstrual products that minimize waste. The prize money and mentorship support from TotalEnergies will enable Ochieng to scale production, increase product awareness, and expand ECOBANA’s impact across the country.
Power’Up Category: BODER
In the Power’Up category, which rewards projects that focus on sustainability and affordability, Martin Lusasi’s startup, BODER, took the prize. BODER is a startup that facilitates electric bike purchases while also providing a ride-hailing platform dedicated to eco-friendly two-wheelers. This initiative aims to reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional vehicles, presenting a sustainable transportation solution that is both affordable and efficient.
BODER’s innovative platform allows users to seamlessly interact with riders and access transportation that aligns with global climate goals. With Kenya increasingly prioritizing green initiatives, BODER’s focus on electric mobility positions it as a key player in the shift towards sustainable transport. The funding and guidance from TotalEnergies will assist BODER in expanding its operations, thus helping more Kenyans access affordable and sustainable transportation options.
The TotalEnergies Startupper Challenge: A Springboard for Kenyan Entrepreneurs
For Kenya’s three winners, the TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge represents more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity to gain visibility, access critical funding, and receive tailored support to refine their business models. Besides the Ksh.1.65M financial boost awarded to each winner, the startups will benefit from a mentorship program organized by TotalEnergies. The company plans to provide ongoing support to help these entrepreneurs scale their businesses, connect with industry stakeholders, and create stronger networks to ensure long-term success.
Through this initiative, TotalEnergies has not only championed innovation but has also set an example for corporate responsibility, encouraging private-sector players to support small businesses that prioritize sustainability and community impact. By leveraging the platform’s reach, young Kenyan entrepreneurs gain both national and international exposure, which is crucial for their development.
Encouraging a Culture of Entrepreneurship
The TotalEnergies Startupper Challenge has played a key role in fostering a culture of entrepreneurship across Kenya. By prioritizing projects that emphasize innovation, sustainability, and social impact, the competition helps drive positive change in the community. The 1,296 entries received in this year’s challenge are a testament to Kenya’s growing entrepreneurial spirit and a promising indicator of the country’s potential to become an innovation hub on the African continent.
Kenya’s young entrepreneurs are increasingly focused on finding solutions to problems that impact their communities, from environmental sustainability to health and mobility. With initiatives like the Startupper Challenge, more youth are inspired to pursue their ideas, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and social impact. The success of the Kenyan startups that participated in this edition reflects the impact of providing a platform where ideas can thrive.
What’s Next for Kenya’s Startups?
The future looks promising for Kenya’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, especially with support from global entities like TotalEnergies. With over a thousand entries submitted and 15 finalists shortlisted, the country has demonstrated a vast pool of creative and impactful business ideas. As the winners of the Startupper Challenge embark on the next phase of their journey, they not only contribute to the local economy but also set an example for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Each of the winning startups plans to expand its operations and deepen its community impact, leveraging the award funding and mentorship to optimize business strategies and drive growth. Whether by providing sustainable menstrual products, offering eco-friendly transportation solutions, or transforming waste into art, these entrepreneurs are shaping a future where sustainability is not just a goal but a cornerstone of Kenya’s development.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 TotalEnergies Startupper of the Year Challenge in Kenya has once again shown the immense potential of young entrepreneurs in driving sustainable development. With each of the three winning startups focusing on critical issues such as waste management, sustainable transportation, and menstrual health, their contributions are already making a difference.
As these startups continue to grow, they will undoubtedly face challenges, but with the foundation laid by TotalEnergies’ support, they are well-equipped to overcome them and continue innovating. In recognizing these entrepreneurs, TotalEnergies is not only celebrating their achievements but also affirming its commitment to Kenya’s sustainable growth and the empowerment of its young innovators.
