In a region where access to quality healthcare, especially sexual and reproductive health (SRH), remains a challenge, technology-driven solutions have emerged as a beacon of hope. At the forefront of this transformative movement is the Hanga SRH Program, an initiative born out of Rwanda’s visionary HangaPitchFest to champion innovative, tech-enabled startups across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Back for a second time and more ambitious than ever, the Hanga SRH Program 2025 promises to amplify impact, foster collaboration, and accelerate the scale of life-saving solutions. Whether you’re a budding innovator or a seasoned entrepreneur working in the SRH space, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
What Is the Hanga SRH Program?
The Hanga Sexual & Reproductive Health (SRH) Program is a continent-wide initiative aimed at empowering early-stage tech startups that are working to address pressing SRH issues in creative and sustainable ways. Conceived by the Government of Rwanda in 2022, the program has quickly become a launchpad for breakthrough ventures.
In its 2023 edition, the program supported 20 startups from 11 countries, unlocking over $1.4 million in funding, generating $55,000+ in revenue, and impacting over 33,500 lives. Now, Hanga is calling on a new wave of changemakers to step forward.
Why Hanga SRH Matters in Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa faces some of the highest maternal mortality rates, gender-based violence cases, and unmet needs for contraception in the world. Traditional approaches have struggled to scale or adapt to the region’s rapidly evolving demographics, especially its youth population.
The Hanga SRH Program fills this gap by:
- Backing scalable digital innovations
- Providing strategic funding and mentorship
- Creating access to policy influencers and funders
- Building a network of like-minded entrepreneurs
Key Thematic Areas for Hanga SRH 2025
The program is actively seeking innovations in the following areas:
✔️ Maternal Health Beyond Antenatal Care
Innovations that ensure safe pregnancies, childbirth, and postpartum care.
✔️ Unsafe Abortion Solutions
Tech that removes barriers to safe abortion services and enhances post-abortion care.
✔️ Youth-Centered SRH Services
Digital platforms and interventions targeting young people aged 10–24 with accurate and accessible SRH info.
✔️ Combatting Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
Innovative strategies to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence.
✔️ Contraceptive Access and SRH Education
Solutions to increase awareness, distribution, and use of contraception.
Bonus: Got a revolutionary idea that doesn’t fall within these categories? Hanga wants to hear from you too.
What’s in It for Selected Startups?
Being part of Hanga SRH Cohort 2 means gaining access to a powerful combination of capital, coaching, and connections.
🧾 Grant Funding
- Receive $10,000 USD
- Top startups move into acceleration phase for up to $30,000 USD
🎓 Expert-Led Incubation
- A 2-month curated program covering entrepreneurship, business strategy, and SRH impact
- Designed for hands-on learning and rapid iteration
🤝 6-Month Coaching
- Mentorship from venture-building experts and SRH specialists
- Tailored growth strategy sessions
🌐 Peer Networking
- Collaborate with entrepreneurs across the continent
- Share experiences, unlock partnerships
📈 Market Access & Investor Readiness
- Connect with policymakers, healthcare institutions, and investors
- Launch and scale into new markets
Hear It From Hanga Alumni
“We were relying on unpredictable grant funding. Hanga SRH gave us a model to generate sustainable income while addressing SRHR challenges.”
— AASAP, Rwanda
“As a non-profit, diversifying funding was crucial. Hanga helped us build a robust social enterprise model.”
— GRIT, South Africa
“What sets Hanga SRH apart is the holistic support — hands-on coaching, business development, and a collaborative space to test ideas.”
— Joanna Nicholas, Cohort 1 Coach
Eligibility & Selection Criteria
To apply, your startup should:
- Be based in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Be in the early stages of development (idea to MVP or pilot)
- Be tech-enabled or use digital tools in service delivery
- Have a clear solution in at least one SRH thematic area
- Demonstrate potential for scale and sustainability
- Be committed to social impact and gender equity
Important Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 18 March 2025 |
| Info Session (FR) | 23 March 2025 |
| Info Session (EN) | 6 April 2025 |
| Applications Close | 18 April 2025 |
| Cohort Announcement | Early May 2025 |
| Incubation Starts | June 2025 |
How to Apply to Hanga SRH 2025
Head over to the official application page and get started:
You’ll need to submit a brief overview of your startup, your SRH focus area, your team, and how your tech solution solves a real problem. Selected startups will be invited to interviews before final selection.
