Research to Commercialisation(R2C) Accelerator Program Welcomes Cohort 2: Empowering Innovators to Transform Research Innovations Into Successful Businesses
Viktoria Ventures, in collaboration with the Kenya National Innovations Agency (KENIA), is implementing a Research to Commercialisation (R2C) program to strengthen the commercialisation process in universities and research centres in Kenya. We are thrilled to announce the launch of Cohort 2, an elite group of innovators ready to embark on a transformative journey to turn their groundbreaking ideas into thriving businesses. Building on the success of our inaugural cohort, the program continues to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in research.
The Research to Commercialisation programme is a comprehensive initiative aimed at bridging the gap between research and market success. It provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the essential tools, resources, and mentorship necessary to navigate the complex landscape of commercialisation and take their innovations to market.
The selected cohort members represent a diverse range of expertise. Their groundbreaking innovations and visionary ideas demonstrate the potential to disrupt industries and drive positive change. Over the course of the program, these innovators will engage in intensive training, workshops, and mentorship sessions delivered by industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs.
Meet the cohort participants!
- Florence Atieno from Moi University has developed an innovative solution for controlling phytopathogenic bacteria in tomatoes. Her research focuses on the controlled release of nano biopesticides which improves the stability of bioactive compounds in essential oils. Her innovation supports the SDG’s of achieving zero hunger through food security, improved nutrition, and sustainable agriculture and promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns through eco-friendly production methods.
- Isaiah Odak Onyango, from Wable Maji Safi Solutions, has developed a Smart Water ATM that revolutionizes access to clean and safe drinking water. The M-Safi ATM is unique as it integrates mobile money payment, specifically M-Pesa, providing a convenient and efficient payment method for users. This innovation addresses the critical water access issues, promotes sustainable practices, empowers communities, and fosters social and economic development.
- James Kariuki from International Research & Development Africa Ltd focuses on sustainable clean cookstoves and biofuels for low-income households. By developing an end-to-end sugar beet bioethanol value chain, they ensured a vertically integrated fuel supply business model. His innovation work addresses both affordability and environmental sustainability, making a positive impact on low-income households and promoting a cleaner energy future.
- Margaret Muturi from Kenyatta University has developed a biosensor technology to revolutionize cholera detection in water. By querying large, curated databases and constructing a working database, she identified the signature barcode for the cholera-causing microorganism. The biosensor’s expected outcome is to enable early detection, prompt preventive measures, and the provision of safe drinking water, reducing the impact of cholera outbreaks.
- Dr. Wycliffe Chisutia Wanyonyi from the University of Kabianga has developed a green leather processing technology and keratin biomass recycling system to address the challenges faced by tanneries in Kenya. By introducing eco-friendly chemicals and biotechnology, this technology benefits both tanneries and end users by eliminating pollution, reducing waste management costs, and producing high-quality leather products.
- Juliet Nelima Wafula from Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI) has developed an innovative bread called Lentiish Bread, which addresses iron and zinc malnutrition. The bread is made from a combination of wheat flour, preboiled biofortified beans flour, lentils flour, and mashed sweet potatoes. The product’s nutritional composition has the potential to improve the health and immunity of consumers, leading to enhanced learning capabilities and reduced workforce absenteeism.
- Solomon Omwoma from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology has developed SOBS Omega 3-6-9 feeds, utilizing local materials rich in omega compounds. Targeting 6,000 fish cage farmers in Lake Victoria and 57 million chickens in Kisumu County, the innovation aims to provide a sustainable and cost-effective feed formulation. The innovation offers improved nutrition for livestock, leading to better yields and higher profitability. By utilizing local resources and supporting the agricultural sector, this innovation promotes sustainability and economic growth in the region.
- Phanice Wangila from the University of Kabianga has created a scientifically validated innovation: a bio-infused fermented milk with plant additives. By enhancing the product’s quality and processing hygiene, this innovation aims to increase consumption, improve shelf life, and economically empower women involved in mursik processing.
- James Kamau Karanja from Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO). His innovation is on increasing maize productivity through use of fall armyworm tolerant improved maize varieties. Kenyan farmers face challenges in maize production due to the damaging effects of fall armyworm (FAW), leading to increased costs and reduced availability of quality food. Pesticide use for FAW control has resulted in health and environmental concerns, as well as high production costs.
Throughout the program, participants will focus on refining their business models, conducting market research, developing go-to-market strategies, and exploring funding opportunities. They will also have access to a vibrant ecosystem of industry partners, investors, and mentors who will provide invaluable guidance and support along their entrepreneurial journey.
The Research to Commercialisation program is committed to empowering innovators to drive economic growth, create jobs, and make a lasting impact on society. For more information about the Research to Commercialisation Accelerator program, please visit https://r2c.innovationagency.go.ke/.
