The National Industrial Research and Development Agency (NIRDA) has called for firms and innovators engaged in the cow value chain business to apply for funding to upgrade their equipment.

At the beginning of December last year, NIRDA launched Cow in the Car open calls program that seeks to help firms in the cow value chain and those with innovative ideas to improve competitiveness and productivity of the industry.

According to the agency, applicants are asked to submit their project concept note before the deadline, which is on Monday 10th February 2020, according to the agency.

"We want to help potential firms and innovators to acquire upgraded equipment in a bid to leverage the use of science and technology to get more returns from cowhides, horns, and fats and help to improve the country’s livestock value chain,” said Claire Mukeshimana, NIRDA’s Acting Director-General.

She said that the project would help support the emergence of new industries, and help livestock farmers understand the value of the cow beyond the meat and milk.

Through the support, NIRDA will partner with Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) to help firms and innovators purchase, adapt and make better use of technology (such as equipment, tools, machines, software) as a repayable facility at 0% interest rate, no fees, no collateral.

"We have received some applications but we particularly encourage more young innovators to try their chance and apply so that the youth with innovative ideas are not left behind,” Mukeshimana added.

Firms will also benefit from cost-free technical and business advice to support the growth of your business to improve productivity and management.

Besides, selected firms and innovators will acquire training on the best technology, quality production processes, and business and marketing strategies.

Criteria

Applicants must be established industries or enterprises within the cow value chain (Abattoirs, Hides and Skins collection, Leather Production and Leather Goods and footwear’s producers) with at least 3 years’ experience.

Others include innovators including young ones with registered companies who may wish to turn their ideas into reality.

Application is done through NIRDA’s website: www.nirda.gov.rw 

 For any query or more details Contact NIRDA on toll-free on 1055, or visit us at Kigali City Tower 7th Floor or 13th Floor or  E-mail us on: opencalls@nirda.gov.rw