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A Bespoke Programme for Real-World Results

The GBB Accelerator combines practical support with peer learning to help your business develop where it matters most. We provide a mix of one-on-one advice and expert-led sessions in what we call Field & Forum.

  • Field: Personalised Advice
    You receive dedicated support from expert teams to address your company-specific challenges. This is not a standard programme; it’s a dynamic, practical process tailored to your most urgent needs. The usual time commitment is 3-4 hours per week during each 4-week cycle.
  • Forum: Expert Sessions & Peer Learning
    Along the way, you’ll benefit from coaching and mentorship from senior industry experts, opportunities to connect with potential investors, and media visibility at major community events.

Individualized research and advisory

Dedicated support from McKinsey teams and experts on company-specific challenges.

Time commitment: 3-4 hours per week during a 4-week sprint period

Cohort learning and networking events

Expert-led interactive cohort events on prioritized topics and networking opportunities with investors.

Time commitment: 2-hour sessions,
bi-weekly throughout the 4 month program

Along the way, you’ll gain:

Tailored advisory and hands-on business building support to accelerate your growth

Exposure to potential investors and preparation for your next raise

Coaching and mentorship with senior industry experts and business leaders

Media and visibility at large community events and through press opportunities

Our Support

The GBB Accelerator provides tailored support to each company, focusing on 2–3 core modules based on the business’s most pressing needs. These modules consist of custom-developed scopes of work for each company, not off-the-shelf standard curriculum. Delivery follows a dynamic, hands on approach led by McKinsey teams through multiple 4-week sprint cycles. This process requires one dedicated point of contact from your team and a time commitment of 3–4 hours per week from the full executive team during sprint periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply?

Businesses must be registered and operating in countries Manufacturing Africa operates in, working within the manufacturing sector with a focus on green or sustainable solutions. Applicants must have a clear growth vision and be actively planning to raise external investment capital.

What sectors do you support?

We are sector-agnostic and only require a clear linkage with green manufacturing. Past cohort members include companies in energy, mobility, packaging, agriculture, consumer goods and more.

Is there a cost to join?

No. The program is fully funded by Manufacturing Africa and UK Aid, with no fees charged to participants.

Can I apply if my business is still in early stages?

The program is best suited for growth stage businesses with a proven product or service and some traction in the market. Early stage startups may be considered if they show strong potential and a clear path to scale.

Do I need to be in Nairobi to participate?

No. While some inperson sessions are hosted in Nairobi, the program uses a hybrid model. Virtual participation is possible, though travel may be encouraged for certain events like kickoff or investor showcases.

What happens after the program ends?

You’ll join the GBB alumni network, giving you continued access to connections, updates and potential future opportunities with Manufacturing Africa and partners.

What if my business operates in more than one country?

As long as your business is registered and actively operating in countries Manufacturing Africa operates in, you are eligible, even if you have a footprint in other markets.

What makes this different from other accelerators?

Past participants have indicated that the fully individualized and highly targeted advisory support makes this program distinctive.