The New Home of YEAH! at MUST

Exciting times are ahead for the youth of Mbarara and beyond, as the old, neglected building at the Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) campus is set to undergo a remarkable transformation. Thanks to the generous funding from the Province of West-Flanders in Belgium, this building will soon become the vibrant heart of the Youth Entrepreneurship Academic Hub (YEAH!).

A Vision for the Future

The vision for YEAH! is ambitious and inspiring. This new Entrepreneurship Centre will serve as a dynamic hub where innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship converge. It will be a place where dreams take flight and where young entrepreneurs can turn their ideas into thriving businesses. The upcoming renovation will breathe new life into the building, making it a modern, functional space that caters to the needs of startups and scaleups alike.

From Neglect to Nurture

Currently, the building shows signs of long-term neglect, with broken windows, worn-out roofs, and overgrown grass. However, these signs of disrepair are set to be replaced by signs of renewal and opportunity. The renovation, which will commence in the coming months, aims to have the centre ready by the beginning of next year. This rapid transformation will symbolize not only physical renewal but also the rejuvenation of entrepreneurial spirit among the youth.

A Hub of Innovation and Inspiration

The YEAH! Entrepreneurship Centre will be more than just a workspace. It will be a thriving ecosystem designed to nurture the next generation of business leaders. The centre will provide essential amenities for entrepreneurs, including:

Workspaces for Startups and Scaleups
Offering a conducive environment for both fledgling startups and growing scaleups, the centre will be equipped with modern facilities and resources to support business development.
Inspirational Venue: The centre will host keynote speakers who are industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs. These sessions will inspire and motivate young minds, providing them with valuable insights and lessons from real-world experiences.
Coaching and Mentorship: Recognizing the importance of guidance in the entrepreneurial journey, the centre will have dedicated coaches available. These experts will provide tailored advice and support to help young businesses navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

Building a Community of Innovators

At its core, YEAH! aims to build a community where young entrepreneurs can collaborate, learn, and grow together. By fostering a supportive and innovative environment, the centre will help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical business skills. It will be a place where ideas are not only conceived but also nurtured and brought to market.

A Collaborative Effort

This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and international support. The funding from the Province of West-Flanders in Belgium has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. As we move into the phase of contacting contractors, we are committed to ensuring that the renovation is carried out to the highest standards, creating a space that is both functional and inspiring.

Looking Ahead

As we embark on this exciting journey, we look forward to the day when the YEAH! Entrepreneurship Centre opens its doors. It will mark the beginning of a new era for young entrepreneurs in Mbarara and the surrounding regions. With the support of our partners and the community, we are confident that YEAH! will become a beacon of innovation and a catalyst for economic growth.

Stay tuned for more updates as we progress with the renovation. Together, we are building a brighter future for the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

Thanks to our sponsor: the province of West-Flanders, Belgium