On 12th March 2025, O-Farms Uganda launched the Phase II Cohort 1 Technical Assistance (TA) Kickoff Workshop, bringing together ambitious entrepreneurs, sector experts, and ecosystem enablers to discuss the future of circular agribusiness in Uganda. The workshop provided a platform to explore business growth strategies, sustainable financing, and the practical challenges of circular enterprises in Uganda. Uganda’s agricultural sector remains the backbone of the economy, employing nearly 70% of the population and contributing significantly to the GDP. However, inefficiencies in production, post-harvest losses, and unsustainable practices continue to hinder economic growth and environmental sustainability. The circular economy presents a transformative opportunity moving beyond the traditional take-make-dispose model to one that maximizes resource efficiency, reduces waste, and creates new business opportunities.

Entrepreneurs working on circular solutions, such as organic waste conversion, sustainable packaging, and regenerative farming, shared their experiences. Many noted the difficulty in accessing funding, the lack of structured support for circular SMEs, and the need for stronger policy frameworks to drive adoption. The conversation proceeded with more emphasis on:-

i) UNCAP (Unconventional Capital) Proposition – A revolutionary approach to funding early-stage circular enterprises in Uganda, targeting businesses that struggle to meet traditional bank requirements. Participants learned how to position their ventures for alternative financing models that recognize the long-term value of sustainability-driven businesses.

ii) Lifecycle Assessments by PXP Sustainability – Helping businesses measure their environmental footprint and develop data-driven strategies to improve operational efficiency, minimize waste, and enhance market positioning. Entrepreneurs gained insights into how sustainability assessments can not only improve impact but also increase investment attractiveness.

Finally, there was an opportunity for participants to forge collaborations, exchange insights, and build relationships that will drive collective action in Uganda’s circular ecosystem. Many entrepreneurs emphasized the importance of peer learning and mentorship, particularly in a nascent ecosystem where circular business models are still misunderstood. They also highlighted the need for stronger partnerships with policymakers, investors, and research institutions to create an environment where sustainability-driven businesses can thrive.

O-Farms, with the support of the IKEA Foundation, Bopinc, Biovision Africa Trust, and Uncap, is committed to nurturing Uganda’s circular agribusiness sector through:

1. Accelerator & Fund – Supporting SMEs to scale their circular business activities and increase their market viability.

2. Incubator Program – Helping early-stage entrepreneurs refine their ideas and build strong, sustainable business models.

3. Ecosystem Strengthening & Training – Empowering local Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) to provide specialized support for circular businesses.

4. Advocacy & Policy Influence – Driving conversations on favorable policies and incentives for circular SMEs in Uganda.

This marked another step forward in Uganda’s circular economy journey, proving that innovation, strategic investment, and collaboration can create a more resilient and sustainable agribusiness sector.

The energy, passion, and drive in the room confirmed one thing: Uganda’s circular entrepreneurs are ready to reshape the future of agriculture, and O-Farms is here to accelerate their success.

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