June 27, 2023
by Mastercard, a global leader in payment solutions and financial technology, has been actively working to empower individuals and communities around the world through its Strive initiative. In a remarkable endeavor, Mastercard’s Strive Community has joined forces with the MESH (Mobilizing and Empowering the Startups and High-growth Enterprises Ecosystem) program in Kenya, to empower 150,000 Kenyan innovators. This strategic partnership aims to foster economic growth, create job opportunities, and cultivate a thriving innovation ecosystem in the country.
The Strive initiative by Mastercard is built upon the belief that everyone should be able to participate and thrive in the digital economy. It seeks to empower individuals, especially those from underserved communities, by providing access to education, skills training, and entrepreneurial support. The Strive Community is a global platform where entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers can connect, collaborate, and access valuable resources.
The MESH program, which stands for Mobilizing and Empowering the Startups and High-growth Enterprises Ecosystem, is an innovative initiative in Kenya that aims to accelerate the growth of local startups and small businesses. MESH provides entrepreneurs with crucial resources, including mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking events, to help them scale their ventures and contribute to the country’s economic development.
Collaboration for Impact. The partnership between Mastercard’s Strive Community and the MESH program marks a significant step towards unlocking the potential of Kenyan innovators. By combining their expertise, networks, and resources, the two entities are working towards a common objective: enabling 150,000 Kenyan entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
Access to Finance: The Strive Community and MESH recognize the importance of access to capital for startups and innovators. The partnership aims to provide funding opportunities, financial education, and guidance on securing investments to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses.
Mentorship and Skill Development: Successful entrepreneurs understand the value of mentorship and continuous learning. The collaboration between Strive Community and MESH aims to provide Kenyan innovators with access to experienced mentors, industry experts, and skill development programs, equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of the business landscape.
Networking and Collaboration: Creating a strong support network and fostering collaboration is crucial for the success of any innovation ecosystem. The partnership aims to facilitate networking opportunities, connect innovators with potential partners, and promote collaboration among like-minded individuals and organizations.
Technology and Digital Transformation: In the era of rapid digital transformation, staying updated with the latest technologies is vital for business growth. The collaboration between Strive Community and MESH will focus on equipping Kenyan innovators with the necessary digital skills, promoting technological adoption, and fostering innovation in key sectors of the economy.
The partnership between Mastercard’s Strive Community and the MESH program offers Kenyan innovators a wide range of benefits. By gaining access to mentorship, funding opportunities, and a global network of entrepreneurs, they can unlock their full potential, scale their businesses, and contribute to Kenya’s economic growth. Additionally, the collaboration will empower innovators to develop sustainable solutions to address societal challenges, positively impacting the country and its communities.
Mastercard’s Strive Community and the MESH program’s collaboration to empower 150,000 Kenyan innovators is a testament to the power of partnership and collective action. By combining their resources and expertise,
