These projects, funded by the “Fonds Équipe France” of the French Embassy in Cameroon, were visited on September 29 and 30, 2025, in the regional capital of Adamawa.
The Start-Up 237 Project continues its evaluation tour of initiatives supported since 2023. In Ngaoundere, a joint delegation from the French Embassy and the Francophone University Agency(AUF), led by mission head Donald Boulelou, reviewed seven local start-ups. Six of them emerged from the incubator of the University Institute of Technology (IUT) at the University of Ngaoundéré.
Despite structural and economic challenges, these young companies show remarkable resilience, create value, and generate jobs, reflecting the entrepreneurial drive of a youth eager for innovation.The tour began at Maths 237, founded by Yannick Kouakep Tchatchue, which develops digital solutions for education, an egg incubator, and a cosmetic product called Baume Rose.
It continued with Ets Mixo, specialized in agri-food processing, followed by Ets Hayatou Maïgari’s Biofarm, also active in agro-industry. Zuciya, the only start-up outside the incubator, stood out with its ginger processing into juice and powder. Wems, led by Joel Freddy Katchouagang Pouambe, showcased its approach combining renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. Meanwhile, Ets Ntaba Composites recycles sawdust to produce pallets, furniture, and wood-plastic equipment.
The visit ended at Wang Math Center, which is involved in agro-pastoral activities, green energy, and construction. This follow-up mission reflects the commitment to strengthening support for young entrepreneurs and assessing the impact of allocated funding, while highlighting the role of university incubators as drivers of regional economic development.
Launched in 2023, the Start-Up 237: 100 Projects Made in Camer initiative, with a budget of €2 million, aims to strengthen university incubators, support young entrepreneurs, and build bridges with the private sector. Supported by AUF, the French Embassy, and several ministries, the program brings together 46 mentors, 18 support structures, and funds 100 start-ups.
After participating in several major fairs, the program is now preparing a national pitch competition and new calls for applications. With a focus on sustainability and scaling up its impact, it plans to launch the Pitch Start-Up 237 Contest with additional funding opportunities, select promising start-ups for national and international events, and mobilize more resources to accelerate project growth.
