Innovation Exploration Program (IXP)

By miic communications

Innovation Exploration Program (IXP)

The Innovation Exploration Program is a foundational initiative implemented by the Makerere Innovation and Incubation Center (MIIC) designed to inspire and develop emerging innovators and entrepreneurs across Uganda. As a pre-Graduate Innovation Program (GIP) initiative, this program addresses the critical gap in Uganda’s innovation ecosystem where many potential innovators lack foundational knowledge, exposure, and confidence needed to pursue their innovative ideas seriously.

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Program Details

Uganda’s innovation ecosystem requires systematic capacity building to transition individuals from idea generation to successful entrepreneurship. The program serves as a strategic entry point to MIIC’s comprehensive incubation ecosystem, feeding into advanced programs like the Graduate Innovation Program and Technology Entrepreneurship SEED Program. Through experiential learning combining structured workshops, field assignments, and ecosystem exposure, the program builds foundational innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities while strengthening Uganda’s overall innovation pipeline.

Purpose

The Innovation Exploration Program aims to create a comprehensive learning experience that transforms participants interested and excited about innovation and entrepreneurship into capable, confident innovators ready to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s economic development. The program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application by providing hands-on experience in design thinking methodologies, real-world problem-solving, and direct engagement with Uganda’s innovation ecosystem players.

Objectives
Primary Objectives
  • Develop foundational innovation and entrepreneurship skills among participants across Uganda.
  • Provide practical experience in design thinking and innovation methodologies through structured workshops and field assignments.
  • Create direct exposure to Uganda’s innovation ecosystem through guided ecosystem tours and expert interactions.
  • Build a network of emerging innovators and entrepreneurs with nationwide representation.
  • Identify and nurture high-potential individuals for progression to advanced MIIC incubation programs.
  • Establish regional innovation networks through participant connections and collaborative learning.
  • Create sustainable pathways for continued innovation and entrepreneurship development.
Expected Outcomes
  • The Innovation Exploration Program will develop foundational innovation and entrepreneurship skills among 100+ participants from across Uganda through hands-on workshops, field assignments, and ecosystem exposure. Participants will build professional networks with mentors, peers,Policy makers, Investors, Media and industry leaders throughout Uganda’s innovation ecosystem.

     

  • The program will strengthen Uganda’s innovation pipeline by preparing motivated participants for advanced incubation programs and establishing regional innovation networks through participant connections.
     
  • A validated and scalable program model will be established for future iterations while creating a quality pipeline for MIIC’s Graduate Innovation Program and SEED Program. The initiative will expand MIIC’s regional presence and influence through participant networks and enhance stakeholder relationships across Uganda’s innovation ecosystem.
Target Participants
  • University students with entrepreneurial interests and innovative ideas seeking practical experience.
  • Young professionals (18-35 years) looking to transition into innovation and entrepreneurship.
  • Early-stage entrepreneurs seeking to strengthen foundational skills and expand networks.
  • Community innovators working on local solutions and social innovation initiatives.
  • Public and private sector employees interested in intrapreneurship and innovation within organizations.
Participant Criteria:
  • Multi-sector representation with demonstrated interest in innovation and entrepreneurship
  • Geographic Distribution: Participants from all four regions of Uganda (Central, Eastern, Northern, Western)
  • Commitment Level: Available for full program duration with ability to participate in both physical and virtual sessions
  • Innovation Potential: Strong application demonstrating motivation, creativity, and potential for impact
  • Educational Background: Minimum secondary education with preference for tertiary education or equivalent experience
Expected Participation:
  • Total Participants: 100-120 individuals selected through a competitive application process.
  • Regional Representation: Proportional representation from all regions ensuring national coverage. 
  • Gender Balance: Target minimum 50% female participation to promote inclusive innovation.
  • Sector Diversity: Mix of students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and sector specialists.
  • Experience Range: Combination of novice innovators and those with some entrepreneurial experience.
Program Duration: July 4 - August 28, 2025 (8 weeks)
Session Format: Hybrid delivery combining physical and virtual components
Venues:
  • Physical Venue: Makerere Innovation and Incubation Center (MIIC), Kampala (2 workshops)
  • Field Tour Venues: Innovation ecosystem players in the field – farms, processing facilities, markets, and rural innovation hubs
  • Virtual Platform: Online collaboration platform for 2 virtual workshops and ongoing communication
  • Field Locations: Participants’ home communities and regions for practical assignments
  • Transport support provided for participants from outside Kampala for physical sessions.