2026 Innovation Challenge Off to a Strong Start!

The 2026 Innovation Challenge is off to a great start! In partnership with Africa Career Networks and Kutunga, we have recruited 8 teams to answer the question:

How might we make it easier for a Zimbabwean—whether building their career locally, returning from abroad, or contributing from the diaspora—to turn their education, skills, experience and networks into sustainable income-generating opportunities?

With 8 teams participating this year, and we are excited to be working with an impressive group of coaches who are supporting the team throughout the process. Each team has 6 members, and is led by one dedicated coach. Our Head Coach, Rufaro Mudimu is guiding the coaches through the 8 week challenge. 

The 8-Week Challenge

Teams of six will have eight weeks to research the problem, engage potential users, develop and test their solution, build a prototype or proof of concept, and present their findings and solution to a judging panel.

‍

Meet our Coaches: 

Not pictured: Eric Khumalo - Visionary Six Coach

‍

The Sector Challenge launched on 2 October, 2026 and will close with Final Pitch Day on 4 December. The winners will be announced on 11 December, 2026.

‍