Entlaq, an Egyptian entrepreneurial think tank, has partnered with Savannah, a Sudanese incubator, to support Sudanese migrant and refugee entrepreneurs in Egypt to transition their businesses into the formal economy through comprehensive support, training, and advocacy efforts.
Savannah has built an inclusive platform dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs through education, incubation, and advisory services. Savannah operates on a Sudanese-centric model of partnership and collaboration, catalysing the growth of social entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability. Through access to a global network of seasoned professionals, Savannah aims to elevate innovators and entrepreneurs, especially from the Sudanese diaspora.
“The bond between Egypt and Sudan has always been strong, evolving through the rich histories of both nations. This partnership between Entlaq and Savannah is the latest chapter in that enduring relationship, paving the way for a new generation to collaborate in building a prosperous future for both countries. Together, we will ensure that Sudanese youth and businesses, now finding a foothold in Egypt, can skillfully navigate the Egyptian ecosystem—bringing value to their new host community while gaining the skills needed to thrive, whether as entrepreneurs or in blue- and white-collar professions. This partnership symbolises a shared commitment to empowerment, growth, and the limitless potential of our people,” said Yousif Yahya, Founder and Managing Director of Savannah Innovation Labs.
This partnership sets the foundation for various interventions to enhance the socio-economic status of Sudanese migrant and refugee entrepreneurs in Egypt.
The key objectives outlined in the agreement focus on formalising migrant-led enterprises, providing entrepreneurial support, and promoting economic integration.
Entlaq and Savannah will also advocate for policies that address the unique needs of migrant entrepreneurs, creating a smoother path for them to thrive in Egypt’s business environment.
In addition, the partnership will provide an incubation programme that includes workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programmes aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Business clinics will be offered to help entrepreneurs overcome challenges, while legal and financial advisory services will guide them through the process of formalising and growing their businesses.
Since April 2023, the number of Sudanese refugees registered with UNHCR in Egypt has multiplied five-fold, reaching a staggering 300,000 individuals, with an additional 250,000 awaiting registration. In January 2024, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly revealed that Egypt has taken in 40 percent of the people fleeing Sudan.
“This agreement is a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Egypt. Migrant entrepreneurs bring immense potential to the economy, and our partnership with Savannah will provide them with the support they need to succeed,” added Omar Rezk, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Entlaq.
He also added, ”Entlaq will be conducting a series of focus groups to identify the specific challenges faced by Sudanese migrant entrepreneurs. These findings will be analysed and shared with relevant stakeholders to guide further action and will help in the development of the incubation programme.”
This partnership exemplifies Entlaq’s commitment to driving sustainable economic growth through an inclusive, data-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem, while Savannah continues its mission to uplift migrant communities through empowerment initiatives.