Staff Writer 
THE Eight2Five Innovation Hub, powered by Old Mutual Zimbabwe, is excited to announce the launch of the Trade and Grow Beyond Borders Program, in partnership with DHL GoTrade. This initiative is designed to support exporting and export-ready SMEs and startups.
Zimbabwe is home to a rapidly emerging entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supporting start-ups and young entrepreneurs plays a vital role in addressing key challenges facing the country, such as unemployment, poverty, and the need for innovation in various sectors. Through this program, local businesses will be empowered to not only survive but thrive on the global stage.
DHL, a global leader in logistics, plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade and business connections between Zimbabwe and other countries through its GoTrade initiative, particularly in industries like mining, agriculture, and manufacturing—where efficient logistics are crucial.
By joining forces with Old Mutual’s Eight2Five Innovation Hub, a key player in nurturing Zimbabwe’s next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators, this partnership builds on proven initiatives like the Start-up Accelerator Programme and the Value Creation Challenge, which have successfully propelled start-ups to new heights.
“Supporting SMEs is essential for driving the economic development of our country. Through the Trade and Grow Beyond Borders Program, we are making a deliberate and impactful move toward boosting the global competitiveness of local businesses.
This initiative is not just an investment in the future of SMEs, but also in the future of Zimbabwe’s economy. We are thrilled to partner with DHL GoTrade in this effort, as the Program reflects our shared commitment to fostering sustainable business growth and expanding the global reach of SMEs in Zimbabwe.
Together, we are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for local businesses,” said Lillian Mbayiwa, Head of Group Marketing, Public Affairs, and Sustainability at Old Mutual Zimbabwe.
The Trade and Grow Beyond Borders Program aims to equip 300 SMEs and startups with the essential knowledge and resources needed to thrive in international markets.
The program will feature a series of engaging workshops and online sessions, starting in March, that will cover crucial aspects of exporting, including market access, logistics, and compliance. There will be a total of four in-person cohorts starting with Harare, and four online cohorts starting in Q2 to cater to as many SMEs as possible.
The Eight2Five Innovation Hub, powered by Old Mutual Zimbabwe, remains committed to helping entrepreneurs solve business challenges through innovative technology.
In addition to workshops, the hub provides office space, business development programs, and valuable networking opportunities to foster collaboration and creativity among start-ups. The Value Creation Challenge is another key initiative that has successfully propelled start-ups to new heights, demonstrating our dedication to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship.
This initiative aligns with Old Mutual’s brand purpose and promise to champion mutually positive futures. By investing in the growth and development of SMEs, we are investing in the future of Zimbabwe’s economy. We believe in the potential of our local businesses and are committed to providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed globally.
The Eight2Five Hub invites all exporting and export-ready SMEs and startups to apply for the Trade and Grow Beyond Borders Program. Interested parties can submit their applications on https://forms.office.com/e/sBYQBQSs96 by 7 March 2025.
