Startup Advisory Program (SAP)

By miic communications

Startup Advisory Program (SAP)

The MIIC Startup Advisory (SAP) Program supports founders and entrepreneurs by providing expert guidance, knowledge, and linkages to navigate challenges and transform ideas into market-fit ventures. Targeting pre-seed to series A startups, the program offers mentoring, operational support, and networking. Advisors help validate ideas, refine business models, improve investment readiness, and connect startups with investors and partners.

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Program Details

The Startup Advisory Program (SAP) provides targeted advisory support to startups through a flexible, on-demand model. Startups can access expert guidance, strategic tools, and technical services across key business areas to help them refine their ideas, grow sustainably, and attract investment.

SAP is designed to meet founders at their point of need while offering opportunities for deeper, structured engagement. Startups that apply to SAP gain access to both on-demand support and structured, ongoing strategic engagement. Through this model, each startup may be matched with an advisor for dedicated, milestone-based support, including regular check-ins and strategy refinement. This dual approach ensures that startups receive timely input when needed and sustained support as they grow.

MIIC leverages its diverse pool of expert coaches and Business Development Service (BDS) providers to offer support across core business areas including product development, market entry, sales, finance, legal compliance, and team growth. Whether through walk-ins, email requests, or scheduled sessions, startups gain access to technical assistance, resources, and tools at critical moments in their journey.

This program ensures that startups don’t just survive but thrive—by providing adaptable, personalized support through both immediate problem-solving and long-term strategic advisory.

Eligibility

Makerere Innovation and Incubation Center (MIIC) welcomes startups from all sectors, providing incubation and advisory support to help them grow. MIIC focuses on technology-enabled ventures but remains sector-agnostic, allowing diverse innovators to participate in the program.

The program is open to all startups seeking support, with the expectation that participants actively engage with advisors and demonstrate a commitment to implementing feedback for their growth and success.

Support Access Model

Through the program, MIIC will provide ad hoc and demand-based support through multiple channels:

  • Walk-ins – Visit the center for direct assistance.
  • Email Requests – Reach out via email for inquiries and guidance.
  • Phone Calls – Get support through scheduled or on-demand phone consultations.

Scheduled Calls/Meetings – Book a session for structured advisory.

Key Program Pillars/Core Services

1. Demand Advisory Support

  • Support is accessible via walk-ins, email inquiries, or calls from accepted startups.
  • MIIC assigns expert coaches based on the startup’s specific request or challenge.
  • One-time advisory sessions may be conducted in person, via phone call, or via email with quick advice/support/tools/resources provided whenever requested.

2. Structured, Ongoing Strategic Engagement

  • In addition to on-demand support, startups benefit from structured, ongoing strategic engagement with expert advisors.

     

  • MIIC matches startups with dedicated coaches based on their needs for long-term milestone tracking and strategic guidance.

     

  • Regular check-ins, performance reviews, and tailored support sessions help startups refine direction, assess progress, and implement sustainable growth strategies.

3. Access to Tools & Resources

  • Participating startups will access a curated repository of tools including templates, checklists, pitch guides, business model canvases, and investment readiness frameworks.
  • Resources are designed to support decision-making, planning, and execution at various stages of startup growth.

4. Technical Services (BDS)

  • Startups will receive specialized technical support in areas such as:
     • Marketing & sales
     • Product development
     • Finance & investment readiness
     • Business model design
     • Legal & compliance etc

MIIC recommends experts from its pool of Business Development Service (BDS) providers to deliver these services based on need.

Program Model

  • Continuous support – no fixed cohort or deadline
  • Advisory is available on request through phone calls or email inquiries.
  • Periodic reviews every 3 months to assess progress and refine support

Unique Value Proposition
 ✓ Personalized guidance from experienced experts
 ✓ Practical tools and self-help resources
 ✓ Targeted technical services from BDS professionals
 ✓ Faster growth, improved strategy, and better investment readiness

 ✓ Structured, milestone-based advisory engagement