Context
Afghanistan’s digital economy is still emerging, with youth and freelancers facing barriers such as limited funding, lack of incubation support, and gender gaps in participation. UNDP sought to strengthen the startup ecosystem by providing seed funding, training, and mentorship opportunities for young entrepreneurs and freelancers.
3D Our Role
- Designed and implemented contests for digital startups and freelancers
- Conducted incubation and training programs in Kabul and Herat
- Organized pitch events and closing ceremonies to showcase innovations
- Provided seed funding and incentive grants to startups and freelancers
- Delivered continuous mentoring and monitoring of funded projects
Project
Accelerating Digital Startups & Entrepreneurs in Afghanistan
Client / Partner
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Location | Duration
Kabul & Herat, Afghanistan | Jan 2026 – Aug 2026
Beneficiaries Reached
200 entrepreneurs, startups, and freelancers
Delivery Highlights
- 120 applications collected; 60 startups selected (50% female participation)
- 100 freelancers supported with training and incentive grants
- 1 month incubation program delivered with expert trainers and mentors
- Pitch events organized in Kabul and Herat with media coverage
- 30 winning startups received seed funding in two tranches (66,400 AFN each)
- Incentive support provided to remaining startups and freelancers
- Closing ceremonies held with recognition of top performing teams
Added Value
- Gender sensitive approach ensuring women’s equal participation
- Adaptation of training for low literacy and early stage entrepreneurs
- Strong collaboration with universities, tech hubs, and local authorities
- Rapid implementation under UNDP compliance and reporting standards
Impact
- Strengthened entrepreneurial capacity among Afghan youth and freelancers
- Created direct funding opportunities for 30 startups and 100 freelancers
- Improved digital business planning, pitching, and market entry skills
- Promoted gender inclusion with 50% female participation in startups
- Enhanced visibility of Afghan innovation through national media coverage