About the study
Access to quality healthcare in Africa remains a major challenge. At the same time, innovative healthcare startups are emerging with solutions that can improve access, affordability, and quality of care. However, many struggle to grow due to limited funding, complex regulations, market barriers, and a lack of specialized business support.
This project focuses on strengthening the organizations that support these startups, known as Entrepreneurial Support Organizations (ESOs) across Africa, with a focus on Kenya, Nigeria, and Rwanda. ESOs help startups refine business models, navigate regulations, access finance, and reach markets. Yet many rely on general business support models that are not tailored to the unique needs of healthcare innovation.
Over three years, the evaluation team, led by the Strathmore University PRISM Centre and working with country partners Anadach Group (Nigeria) and CIIC-HIN (Rwanda), has been characterizing the landscape of early-stage healthcare startups and ESOs. In partnership with Bridge for Billions, we are co-designing and implementing a targeted capacity-building and incubation program for selected ESOs. The evaluation team is also assessing the program’s impact. The project is generating practical tools, evidence, and policy recommendations to strengthen support for healthcare startups and build more responsive health innovation ecosystems. The project is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
What the study is doing
Between November 2024 and June 2025, we mapped and analyzed healthcare startups and ESOs across the three countries, identifying their characteristics, barriers, and enabling factors. Based on this, and with ecosystem players, we co-developed a Theory of Change outlining how ESOs can better support sustainable startup growth. In partnership with Bridge for Billions, we designed a tailored capacity-building and incubation program, which is currently being implemented and evaluated for its impact on startup performance and the broader healthcare ecosystem.
To do this, we are working closely with startup founders, ESO leaders, investors, policymakers, and industry experts to ensure the intervention reflects real needs on the ground.
Why this study matters
Stronger support systems can help healthcare startups scale sustainably, strengthen health systems, reach underserved communities, and contribute to economic growth.
