VENUE: Kibabii University

Date: May 31

The Kenya –USA Global Launchpad initiative (KUGLi) project was designed to facilitate a partnership between Kenyan universities and Syracuse University in New York, USA to implement an intensive experience pairing U.S. and Kenyan university students to develop micro-multinational ventures that employ entrepreneurial solutions to address and resolve global issues

The objectives and expected outcomes of the project was expected to meet the following specific objectives:

i. Enroll Kenyan and U.S. students in a hybrid virtual/in-person program to incubate and found STEAM-focused ideas socially conscious joint business ventures by U.S. and Kenyan entrepreneurs

ii. Create significant and lasting professional and personal connections between U.S. and Kenyan students, academics, and potential private sector program partners;

iii. Highlight areas of cooperation for the United States and Kenya, as well as showcase positive developments in U.S.-Kenyan trade and investment and economic relations since the start of modern diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1964

Conference Overview

The Innovation Summit is a conference designed to be a convergence of young minds where professionals, thought leaders, academics, industry experts, and young entrepreneurs can engage in thought-provoking discussions to explore cutting-edge ideas, share experiences, and catalyze the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, gain valuable insights, and explore the latest trends in the entrepreneurial and innovation landscape. It fosters a culture of creativity, collaboration, and disruption in the business landscape. The event will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, pitching, and providing a comprehensive experience for all participants

Conference objectives

a) To enhance networking and multi-disciplinary research among student innovators
b) To publicize and disseminate recent ideas through the conference proceedings
c) To provide a forum for mentorship of upcoming entrepreneurs and innovators

Key Themes

1. Cultivating Creativity and Risk-Taking

– Entrepreneurial Journey: Real-world stories and experiences from successful entrepreneurs
– Start-up Strategies: Practical insights and strategies for launching and scaling successful ventures
– Sessions on unlocking creativity within teams
– Workshops on embracing risk as a catalyst for innovation
– Keynote addresses from entrepreneurs who thrived by taking bold risks

2. Technology Disruption and Future Trends

– Emerging Technologies: Deep dives into disruptive technologies shaping the future of industries
– Deep dives into emerging technologies shaping industries
– Panels on the impact of AI, blockchain, and other disruptive technologies
– Showcase of innovative startups at the forefront of technological advancements

3. Entrepreneurial Leadership:

– Insights from successful entrepreneurs on leadership strategies
– Discussions on building and leading high-performing teams
– Workshops on cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset within organizations

4. Inclusive Innovation

– Innovation Ecosystem: Exploring the latest technological advancements and fostering a culture of innovation
– Dialogues on promoting diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship
– Spotlight on successful ventures led by underrepresented entrepreneurs
– Strategies for creating inclusive innovation ecosystems

5. Funding and Investment Landscape: Connecting entrepreneurs with potential investors and funding opportunities

• Panels featuring investors and funding experts
• Pitch sessions for startups to connect with potential investors
• Workshops on preparing compelling business pitches

Interactive Sessions

1. Innovation Workshops:

– Hands-on sessions to spark creativity and problem-solving
– Design thinking workshops for developing customer-centric solutions
– Prototyping and ideation labs

2. Startup Showcases

– Platform for early-stage startups to pitch their ideas
– Networking opportunities for startups to connect with mentors, advisors, and potential collaborators
– Awards for the most innovative startups

3. Tech Playground

– Interactive exhibits featuring the latest in technology and innovation
– Opportunities for attendees to engage with cutting-edge products and services
– Live demonstrations of innovative solutions

Networking Opportunities

1. Collaboration Zones

– Dedicated spaces for entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate
– Industry-specific networking sessions
– Speed networking events for quick and effective introductions

2. Mentorship Clinics

– One-on-one sessions with experienced mentors and industry experts
– Guidance on overcoming challenges and navigating the entrepreneurial journey

Benefits of Sponsorship/Partnership

1. Prominent Brand Exposure: Showcase your brand to a diverse audience of professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators
2. Thought Leadership Opportunities: Position your organization as a thought leader through participation in panel discussions or workshops
3. Networking Opportunities: Engage with potential clients, partners, and collaborators during dedicated networking sessions
4. Customized Visibility: Tailored sponsorship packages to meet your specific marketing and branding goals

Post-Conference Initiatives: “Ignite” aims to have a lasting impact beyond the conference, with planned initiatives such as ongoing mentorship programs, innovation challenges, and a virtual community platform for continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

Why be at the KUGLi Summit? This Innovation Summit is designed to be a transformative experience, bringing together the brightest minds in entrepreneurship and innovation to inspire, connect, and propel the next generation of disruptors and industry leaders. This conference is not just an event; it’s a catalyst for change and a celebration of the relentless pursuit of innovation

Organizing committee

1. Dr. Churchill O. Saoke                Chairman
2. Prof Bruce Kingma                      Co-Chairman
3. Traci Peisler                                 Member
4. Raymond Ochieng                       Member (Govt Rep)
5. Dr. Anthoney Oloo Owino           Member
6. Prof Maiyo                                   Member
7. Margaret Ndiragu                         Member (Corporate Rep)
8. Dr. Shem Sam Otoi                      Member
9. Abdi Hassan                                 Secretariat
10. Nicholas Odhiambo                   Secretariat

For more information, contact

Conference secretary

1. Dr. Churchill Saoke PhD
2. Anthoney Oloo
3. Prof Maiyo

The KUGLi Innovation Summit

Empowering Entrepreneurship and Driving Innovation

Conference Overview

The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Conference is designed to be a convergence of minds where professionals, academics, and entrepreneurs can engage in thought-provoking discussions, gain valuable insights, and explore the latest trends in the entrepreneurial and innovation landscape. The event will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, providing a comprehensive experience for all participants. The conference will be presided over by among other guests the USA Ambassador to Kenya Amb Megan Whitman

Key Themes

– Entrepreneurial Journey: Real-world stories and experiences from successful entrepreneurs
– Innovation Ecosystem: Exploring the latest technological advancements and fostering a culture of innovation
– Start-up Strategies: Practical insights and strategies for launching and scaling successful ventures
– Investment and Funding: Connecting entrepreneurs with potential investors and funding opportunities
– Emerging Technologies: Deep dives into disruptive technologies shaping the future of industries

Benefits of Sponsorship/Partnership

– Prominent Brand Exposure: Showcase your brand to a diverse audience of professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators
– Thought Leadership Opportunities: Position your organization as a thought leader through participation in panel discussions or workshops
– Networking Opportunities: Engage with potential clients, partners, and collaborators during dedicated networking sessions
– Customized Visibility: Tailored sponsorship packages to meet your specific marketing and branding goals
– Access to Talent: Connect with emerging talent in the entrepreneurial and innovation space

How You Can Get Involved

We offer various sponsorship levels to accommodate your organization’s budget and objectives. Options range from Platinum, Gold, Silver, to Associate Sponsorships. Each level provides distinct benefits, ensuring maximum visibility and engagement

I am confident that your involvement in this conference will not only elevate your brand but also contribute to the success and growth of the entrepreneurial and innovation community

Please find attached a detailed sponsorship prospectus outlining the conference agenda, sponsorship packages, and associated benefits. I would be delighted to discuss how the organizing committee can tailor a sponsorship package to align with your strategic goals

Thank you for considering this partnership opportunity. I look forward to the possibility of collaborating with Kibabii University to make the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Conference a resounding success.
Sincerely,

Dr. Churchill Saoke PhD
KUGLi Project Lead
Tel No.: +254722700886