Reciprocal crowdfunding as means to enable student and graduate entrepreneurship in Africa - a case study of Rwanda

Abstract

Research on entrepreneurship in Africa is mostly concerned with entrepreneurs, firms and the environment. Student entrepreneurship however is neglected, albeit young populations and high economic potential. This study analyses obstacles and support for student and graduate entrepreneurship in a field study approach in Rwanda with a series of qualitative interviews as well as a quantitative survey. Lacking access to financial capital is identified as main problem and a reciprocal crowdfunding model is developed to mitigate it. The concept of crowdfunding is detached from the online world, supplemented with reciprocity and thereby becomes a valid option for financing student entrepreneurship in Africa.