Kenyatta University, Main Campus, Nairobi +254 20 8703870 director-innovationsupport@ku.ac.ke

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

General Inquiries

What is the Chandaria Business Innovation and Incubation Centre (CBIIC)?

CBIIC is Kenyatta University’s official incubation centre dedicated to nurturing innovative ideas, startups, and research-based ventures through structured support and mentorship.

How do I create an account on the Incubation Management System?

Visit the portal and click on “Create Account.” Fill in your details and verify via email. Approval may be subject to eligibility criteria.

I forgot my password. How do I reset it?

Click “Forgot Password” on the login page, enter your registered email, and follow the instructions to reset your password.

What kind of innovations are supported?

We support innovations in all sectors including health, agriculture, ICT, education, manufacturing, and green energy, as long as they are impactful and viable.

What support does the centre provide apart from mentorship?

Additional support includes co-working space, internet, IP guidance, networking events, investor linkage, and pitch training.

What is the difference between incubation and acceleration?

Incubation focuses on early-stage idea development while acceleration targets growth-stage startups with a market-ready product or service.

How do I track the status of my application or incubation?

Log into your dashboard on the system to view your application status, mentor assignments, milestones, and communications.

Who do I contact for help with the system?

You can reach out via email to the Incubation Office or submit a support ticket through the KU support portal.

How can I give feedback or suggest improvements?

Use the feedback section on your dashboard or attend scheduled incubate forums where feedback is collected and reviewed.

Application & Admission

How do I apply for incubation at the Chandaria Business Innovation and Incubation Centre?

You can apply by filling out the application form available through the Incubation Management System (IMS). Ensure all required fields are completed before submitting online.

Who is eligible to apply for incubation?

Kenyatta University students, staff, and members of the public with innovative business ideas or startups are eligible to apply. However, 70% of slots are reserved for KU community members.

What is the application deadline?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but evaluation and admission are done quarterly. Check the system for current deadlines.

Do I need a complete business plan to apply?

A business plan is not mandatory during initial application, but you must clearly articulate your idea, value proposition, and implementation plan.

Is there an application fee?

No, applying to the incubation program is free of charge.

What happens after I submit my application?

After submission, your application undergoes a preliminary review, and if shortlisted, you will be invited for a pitching or interview session.

Can I apply as a team or only as an individual?

You can apply as either. Teams are encouraged, especially if they represent diverse skill sets relevant to the startup.

Can I apply if I already have a registered business?

Yes, startups at early stages of development with registration are welcome, provided they meet the innovation and impact criteria.

Are there specific sectors targeted by the incubation centre?

The centre supports a wide range of sectors including ICT, agribusiness, education, health, green energy, and manufacturing.

Will I receive mentorship and resources if my application is successful?

Yes. Successful applicants gain access to mentors, training sessions, office space, and technical support during their incubation period.

Eligibility Criteria

Is there an age limit for applicants?

There is no strict age limit. However, applicants must be at least 18 years old to sign a tenancy or incubation agreement.

Are there academic qualifications required for eligibility?

No formal academic qualifications are required. What matters is the strength, feasibility, and innovation of your idea.

Are KU alumni eligible to apply?

Yes. KU alumni are encouraged to apply and are considered under the 70% KU allocation.

Can I apply if I have previously been incubated at Chandaria BIIC?

You may apply again if you have a new and distinct idea. Repeat applications for the same idea must show significant progress or pivots.

Is prior entrepreneurial experience required?

No, it is not required. The program is open to first-time entrepreneurs as well as experienced ones.

Can I apply if I am based outside Nairobi or Kenya?

Yes, but physical incubation is preferred. Some services may be offered virtually depending on capacity and nature of the idea.

Are there sector-specific eligibility requirements?

No. The centre supports innovations across multiple sectors including ICT, agribusiness, education, energy, health, and manufacturing.

Do I need to have funding or capital before applying?

No. The program is designed to support early-stage startups, including those without funding.

Must my idea be technology-based to be eligible?

No. While tech ideas are encouraged, any innovative idea with growth potential is welcome.

Can I apply while still in my first year at university?

Yes. All KU students, regardless of academic year, are eligible as long as they can manage academic and startup commitments.

Incubation Process

What is the incubation process at Chandaria BIIC?

The incubation process involves application submission, idea evaluation, pitching, onboarding of selected candidates, structured support (mentorship, training, office space), and periodic performance reviews.

How long does the incubation program last?

The standard incubation period is 12 to 24 months, depending on the progress and nature of the startup.

What happens after I submit my application?

Your application is reviewed by a panel for eligibility and innovation potential. Shortlisted applicants are invited for pitching before a final selection.

Can I be removed from the incubation program?

Yes. Startups that fail to meet progress benchmarks, misuse resources, or violate the code of conduct may be exited from the program.

How is progress monitored during incubation?

Startups are required to submit monthly and quarterly reports, attend scheduled reviews, and participate in demo days to showcase milestones.

Can I defer or pause my incubation period?

In special cases (e.g., medical emergencies or academic conflict), you can request a deferment in writing, subject to approval by the Incubation Committee.

Are incubated startups provided with funding?

While direct funding is not guaranteed, startups are supported in accessing grants, pitch competitions, and investor linkages.

Will I have a dedicated mentor during incubation?

Yes. Each startup is matched with one or more mentors depending on the sector and needs of the venture.

Can I incubate more than one idea at a time?

Priority is given to one idea per team or individual to ensure focus. A second idea may be considered after demonstrating significant progress on the first.

How do I graduate from the incubation program?

Graduation occurs upon successful completion of the program, having met growth milestones, built a viable product, and demonstrated readiness to scale.

Mentorship & Training

What kind of mentorship is offered to incubates?

We provide one-on-one mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and academics tailored to your startup’s needs.

How are mentors assigned to startups?

Mentors are matched based on the startup’s sector, stage of development, and specific support areas needed.

Can I request a change of mentor if I feel it's not a good fit?

Yes. Incubates can request mentor reassignment through the system, providing valid reasons for the request.

Are there structured training sessions during incubation?

Yes. We offer scheduled workshops and training on topics like business modeling, marketing, pitching, financial literacy, IP, and legal compliance.

Is attendance to mentorship and training sessions mandatory?

Yes. Active participation is expected and contributes to your overall incubation evaluation and support continuation.

How frequently do mentorship meetings happen?

Mentorship meetings are scheduled at least once a month, but can occur more frequently based on the startup’s progress and mentor availability.

Can I get mentorship even if I’m not officially incubated yet?

Pre-incubation applicants may access general guidance, but dedicated mentorship is reserved for admitted incubates.

How do I schedule a mentorship session?

Use the Incubation System’s “Mentorship” tab to view your mentor’s availability and book a session directly.

Can I have more than one mentor?

Yes. Based on your venture’s complexity, you may be assigned multiple mentors focusing on different support areas (e.g., tech, business, marketing).

Is mentorship provided after graduation from incubation?

Yes. Alumni may access limited mentorship support and join follow-up programs or alumni networks.

Office & Lab Space

Who is eligible to use the office and lab spaces at the incubation centre?

Only admitted incubates (both KU and non-KU) with active incubation status are eligible to access office and lab space.

How do I apply for office or lab space?

Log in to the Incubation Management System, navigate to the “Facilities” section, and submit a space request form with your requirements.

Are the office spaces shared or private?

Both shared and private office spaces are available, depending on availability, team size, and startup needs.

Is there a cost associated with using the office or lab space?

Office and lab spaces are provided at no cost for KU staff and students; external incubates may incur minimal maintenance fees.

Can I book a space for one day or just for meetings?

Yes. Incubates can book hot desks or meeting rooms for specific days via the booking module in the system.

How long can I occupy a dedicated office space?

Dedicated office space is typically assigned for the incubation duration (up to 12 months), subject to performance reviews.

Is 24/7 access allowed in the incubation facility?

No. Incubation centre hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Special access requests must be formally submitted.

Can I personalize or brand my assigned office space?

Minimal branding is allowed with prior approval from the Facility Manager. Structural modifications are not permitted.

Are power and internet provided in the spaces?

Yes. All spaces come with stable power supply and high-speed internet access at no additional cost.

Is there parking available for incubates?

Limited parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Incubates must register their vehicles at the centre’s reception.

Intellectual Property (IP)

What is Intellectual Property (IP)?

Intellectual Property refers to creations of the mind such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce.

Who owns the IP developed at the incubation centre?

Ownership is determined by KU’s IP Policy. For KU staff and students, the University may retain partial or full rights depending on funding, facilities used, and institutional contribution.

What types of IP can be protected at the Centre?

Common IP types include patents, trademarks, copyrights, industrial designs, and trade secrets.

Does the Directorate help with patent filing?

Yes. The Technology Transfer Office (TTO) offers guidance and support for drafting, filing, and managing patents.

How long does the IP registration process take?

It varies. For example, patent applications in Kenya may take 12–24 months depending on complexity and KIPI timelines.

Can I file IP protection while still developing my product?

Yes, but it is advisable to file once your concept is sufficiently developed to meet patentability criteria such as novelty and usefulness.

What if I collaborate with someone from outside KU?

Joint ownership can be established, and agreements must clearly define IP contributions, rights, and commercialization terms.

What happens if I develop IP using university facilities?

IP developed using university resources may be subject to KU’s IP policy, which may grant the university a share of ownership or benefits.

Who evaluates my idea's patentability or protectability?

The KU IP Office, in collaboration with legal experts, evaluates the novelty, usefulness, and potential for registration of your idea.

What is an NDA, and when should I use it?

A Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) protects confidential information. Use it when discussing your idea with potential collaborators or investors.

Industry Linkages

What are industry linkages in the context of incubation?

Industry linkages refer to partnerships and collaborations between incubates and external companies, organizations, or professionals that support innovation, mentorship, commercialization, and market access.

How does the Incubation Centre help connect incubates with industry partners?

The Centre organizes networking events, pitch sessions, and stakeholder forums and also facilitates introductions based on incubate needs.

Can incubates partner with industry players directly?

Yes. However, it’s advisable to involve the Centre to ensure alignment with your incubation goals and to provide necessary legal or policy guidance.

Do I need to sign any agreement when linked to an industry partner?

In most cases, yes. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), NDAs, or collaboration agreements may be required, especially if IP or funding is involved.

Exit & Graduation

What does "Exit" from the incubation program mean?

Exit refers to the official conclusion of an incubate’s engagement with the incubation program, either through successful graduation or early termination.

What is meant by "Graduation" from the incubation program?

Graduation is when an incubate has met all incubation milestones and is ready to transition into independent operation, such as launching or scaling their venture.

What are the key requirements for graduation?

Key requirements include completion of the business development roadmap, validated prototype or MVP, formal registration of the enterprise, and successful pitch to a graduation panel.

Get In Touch

Chandaria Business Innovation & Incubation Centre, Kenyatta University

director-innovationsupport@ku.ac.ke

+254 20 8703870 Ext 3870