Who Serves on the ELISA Business Scholars Selection Committee?
Scholars selection is carried out by a selection committee composed of representatives from the business ecosystem who support development in Africa. The committee evaluates applicants based on predetermined criteria. Their recommendations are compiled and a summary report is used to determine the final selection of participants.

How Are Applicants Invited to Apply for the ELISA Business Scholars Program?
ICPD distributes information through its websites, the ELISA Business Network and other social media sites. We also send emails directly to collaborating groups and organizations across the globe. ELISA Business Scholars have also become a large source for word of mouth referrals.

What does the ELISA Scholars selection process entail?

• Once applications are received, preliminary screening is carried out by ICPD to ensure that adequate information has been received and all objective criteria have been met
• During a specified series of dates, each selection committee member reviews up to 15 randomly assigned applicantions and privides selection recommendations using the ELISA Scholars scoring rubric. Scoring is carried virtually using a secure online selection tool.
• Scores are compiled and a summary of the cohort selection results are sent to the selection committee
• The top scoring applicants are identified and notified of their selection.
• Applicants that are not selected to participate are also notified.

ICPD considers the following quantitative criteria during initial prescreening of the candidates:

• The current year scholars application must be fully completed
• Applicant must have created a profile and Project Page on the ELISA Portal
• Applicant must be a founder of their venture
• The business must primarily benefit an African economy
• Applicant must be on the African continent
• Applicant cannot have participated as a prior ELISA Scholar
• Must have access to Whatsapp or Zoom Technology and have the ability to meet with coach once per month

These are the selection criteria included in the scoring rubric:

• Viability of the business idea - Business has a prototype (product or service); business has tested the market; business is fully operational in the market
• Founder’s ability to communicate effectively - Founder is able to communicate the business idea and vision showing an understanding of how the business will meet a market need
• Commitment of the Founder to the business - Founder has a background in the startup’s main line of business or Founder is an operator and is committing time to the business
• Sustainability of the business - Founder has a cofounder or team to work with; there are sufficient skill sets on the team to ensure the business continues to operate or the Founder has identified knowledge gaps
• Potential impact of the business on Africa - Does the business have the potential to create jobs on the continent of Africa? Can the business potentially scale to other African countries?
• Usefulness of the ELISA Business Scholars Program to the business or project

Have a Question?
Contact us at scholars@elisanetwork.com