Over the course of three December days, the Biz Connect Burundi Fair transformed a simple exhibition into a vibrant hub of entrepreneurial opportunities, strategic connections and local innovation. Organised by 3HI Partners in partnership with Fanaka&Co, the fair brought together entrepreneurs from various Orange Corners Burundi cohorts and the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF) programmes, highlighting the growing dynamism of Burundi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Behind every stand was more than a product; there were ideas, journeys and ambitions. SMEs, startups and growing enterprises with a shared goal: to build sustainable business models, create jobs and actively contribute to Burundi’s economic development.
At the heart of the fair, a high-level strategic workshop provided participants with practical insights into the realities of doing business in Burundi. Led by experienced business leaders, including Pierre Axel Cot (Managing Director of Fabrimetal Burundi) and Lyria Ariella Dushime (Sustainability Officer at BRARUDI), the session addressed key challenges and opportunities entrepreneurs face today. Moderated by Larissa Byll Cataria, Founder of 3HI Partners, the discussion revolved around the theme: “Entrepreneurship in Today’s Burundi: Business Opportunities, Investment Pathways and How to Get Prepared.” This topic resonated strongly with entrepreneurs seeking growth, access to finance, partnerships and strategic structuring.
The Biz Connect Burundi Fair also marked significant milestones for many participants. 31 entrepreneurs from the third and fourth cohorts were officially certified, reflecting their strengthened entrepreneurial skills and readiness for the market. In addition, 15 out of 16 entrepreneurs from the Orange Corners Burundi programme successfully secured funding from the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF), a critical catalyst for innovation, competitiveness and business scalability
Supported by committed partners such as BRARUDI, Fabrimetal, FAL Group and UNFPA, and honoured by the presence of Jurriaan Middelhoff, NL Ambassador for Youth, Eduction and Work alongside Orange Corners Burundi advisors Milou Derks and Kars Gerrits, the Biz Connect Burundi Fair proved to be more than just an event. It emerged as a powerful platform for strengthening entrepreneurship, fostering collaboration between talent, investors and institutions, and driving sustainable impact.
Through Biz Connect Burundi, Orange Corners once again reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Burundian entrepreneurs, stimulating innovation and contributing to the development of a strong, inclusive and future-oriented entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Fun Moment: the fair ended on a beautiful note as the audience voted for the most outstanding stand, which was awarded to Marie-France Cubahiro, Co-founder of Clarance Company, a business specialising in the production of batik fabrics, showcasing the creative and economic potential of innovative craftsmanship in Burundi.
