Last month, Orange Corners Burundi organised an intensive strategic bootcamp bringing together 23 entrepreneurs out of the 30 pre-selected candidates for the 5th cohort. This key stage in the selection process aimed to identify and prepare the most promising entrepreneurs in Burundi, operating in high-potential sectors such as agribusiness, creative and cultural industries, technology, communication, marketing, and other innovative fields.
This major event was also honoured by the presence of H.E. Lianne Houben, NL Ambassador to Burundi, Ms. Lyria Ariella Dushime from the programme’s main private partner Brarudi, Ms. Jenny Clairia Gateka from Fal Group and Mr. Pierre Mandine from Fabrimetal. Their participation reflects the strong commitment of institutional and private partners to fostering entrepreneurship in Burundi and strengthening local SMEs.
A strategic immersion to structure entrepreneurial visions
Going beyond a traditional training session, the bootcamp aimed to be a true transformative experience. Over two intensive days, entrepreneurs worked on clarifying their vision, structuring their strategic objectives, and strengthening their business models.
With the expert guidance of Larissa Byll Cataria, founder of 3hi Partners, participants refined their positioning, reinforced their value proposition, and designed more coherent and sustainable growth trajectories.
Special emphasis was placed on developing entrepreneurial pitching and strategic presentation skills. Entrepreneurs learnt the art of delivering clear, compelling and impact-driven presentations. Themes such as time management, the effective use of the Business Model Canvas, and practical exercises were introduced specially dedicated to clarifying their value propositions and strategic objectives. In addition, participants engaged in scenario-based exercises challenging them on key entrepreneurial realities, including product quality and client management, helping them refine their decision-making and strengthen the resilience of their business models.
Outcome: 16 entrepreneurs selected for the final process
At the end of the bootcamp, 16 entrepreneurs had managed to convince the selection jury with the strength of their vision, the clarity of their business models, and the relevance of their economic and social impact. The final selection of the next Orange Corners Burundi cohort will take into account a few additional considerations, including field visits to ensure the most promising entrepreneurs continue on a structured support journey toward business growth and long-term sustainability.
This rigorous process reaffirms our commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurs who actively contribute to job creation and economic development in Burundi.
A strategic lever for Burundi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem
Through its bootcamps, mentorship and strategic support, Orange Corners Burundi continues to play a key role in strengthening the national entrepreneurial ecosystem. The success of the programme is also a direct result of the dedicated efforts of 3hi Partners, alongside the invaluable support of partners such as Brarudi, Fal Group, Fabrimetal Burundi, UNFPA Burundi and KCB Bank. The 5th cohort looks highly promising, driven by determined entrepreneurs ready to transform their innovations into sustainable, competitive and value-creating businesses. These collaborations reinforce the impact of Orange Corners Burundi, ensuring entrepreneurs receive not only guidance and training but also strategic exposure to institutional and private-sector networks crucial for their growth.
