Challenges facing the Kenyan startup. Are we doing enough to alleviate them?

There is no denying that the Kenyan startup ecosystem is characterized by amazing entrepreneurial talent, a significant customer and business market as well as the energy and desire to see products sale. I mean, who wouldn't want their startup to be the next Facebook or Uber?

There is also no denying however that the ecosystem is also marred by a myriad of challenges. However, the question we should be asking ourselves is,are we doing enough to help alleviate these challenges? Are we really? Today we'll look at...

Lack of mentorship

Mentorship matters. Believe it or not, it does. Mentorship matters in your day to day life. It matters at your workplace. And most of all, it matters for your venture.

You need a mentor for your venture because mentors bring their expertise, their time and extremely valuable connections. Wait. That's not all. There is a possibility that a mentor could invest in your startup. (Investments aren't that easy to come across in this market).

We have so many successful entrepreneurs in Kenya. In Africa. We have as many eager founders and business owners. What we need for these successful entrepreneurs and possible startup mentors is a platform. A platform comprised of a pool of experienced mentors, coaches and mentors for startups.

YoungFounder is not of the idea that we need an elaborate structure (Although that would be totally awesome), but we need you. You as an individual, as a successful entrepreneurs. I'm sure you know other success stories like yourself. You can create a group that is focused on mentorship. Focus your efforts in a particular sector. That's fine. But, do something. Don't just sit down on years on years of experience.

Meanwhile, for the founders, are you looking for mentorship? You can check out these guys/ already established platforms where you can leverage on other people's experiences and challenges.

• Venture Capital For Africa

• Growth Africa

• The Tony Elumelu Foundation

• African Women's Entrepreneurship Program

These are just but a few examples. But they may help you out. Take some time. Register as a mentee, or register as a mentor.

Investment and access to capital

This remains the greatest challenge for startups and not just African startups.

The good news though, is there are various means that you could use to finance your startup. Now, this post is already long enough. Plus, we really don't want to give you half-baked information on how you can access funding for your startup. We shall delve deeper into the ways you can use to access funding for your startup or venture in our next post.