ABOUT 1xSTARTUP
What is 1xStartup?
1xStartup (From Idea to Business) is a 1xBet initiative created for ambitious people aged 18–35 in Zambia who want to develop a business or social project and turn an idea into practical action.
The project brings together:
- practical business guides and useful resources
- insights from experienced Zambian entrepreneurs and professionals
- mentorship and real business perspectives
- an open project contest with cash prizes for the strongest ideas
1xStartup focuses on the realities of building projects in Zambia, from shaping an idea and understanding the market to planning resources, developing visibility and creating a realistic path forward.
We believe Zambia already has ambitious people and promising ideas. 1xStartup creates a platform where those ideas can gain structure, visibility and new opportunities for development.
Mission & Project Idea
Our mission is to help young Zambians move promising ideas forward by providing access to practical business tools, expert insights, mentorship and opportunities to turn projects into reality. 1xStartup connects entrepreneurial ambition with real-world experience and creates a space where people can explore practical approaches to developing their own projects. At the centre of the initiative is the 1xStartup Project Contest, where participants can present their business or social projects and compete for cash prizes to support their implementation.
Our Vision:
We want to contribute to a stronger entrepreneurial community in Zambia by creating more opportunities for young people to develop realistic, sustainable and locally relevant projects.
We believe strong projects are built through:
- a clear idea
- a realistic plan
- practical business tools
- access to experienced people
- the ability to adapt and move forward
- opportunities to turn plans into action
From Idea to Business
1xStartup is built around one idea: promising projects need a clear path forward.
Participants can explore practical resources, follow conversations with experienced entrepreneurs, develop their projects and submit them to the 1xStartup Project Contest.
The strongest projects will move through the selection process, with three winners receiving a 40 000 ZMW cash prize each to implement the projects submitted to the contest.
What We Stand For:
- Practical business value
Content and resources focused on real situations, decisions and challenges. - Local relevance
Business insights and examples connected to the realities of Zambia. - Entrepreneurial initiative
Encouraging people to take ownership of their ideas and develop them into workable projects. - Mentorship and experience
Access to perspectives from entrepreneurs, professionals and recognised voices in Zambia. - Opportunities for strong projects
An open contest where selected projects can compete for cash prizes to support their implementation. - Long-term growth
Building an active 1xStartup community around business insights, project stories, podcasts and practical resources.
Ready to move your idea forward?
How It Works - Project Mechanics
1
Join the Lectures
2
Learn & Develop Your Idea
3
Apply for the Contest
Online Guides
Participants gain access to a series of 5 practical talks with real-life examples, delivered by invited experts. Lecture topics include:
- How to start and grow a business
- How to manage money
- How to promote your business and use social media
- How to lead and work with a team
- How to communicate, be confident and focused on personal growth
Participants with strong ideas can apply for the Contest. Contest details:
- 3 winners
- 40 000 ZMW for each winner
- Selection by a jury
- The goal of the program is to support the launch or development of business and social projects with real potential.
Social Impact
1xStartUp by 1xBet is designed to create long-term positive impact by:
- Encouraging small businesses and self-employment,
- Improving financial literacy,
- Supporting women-led and inclusive initiatives,
- Creating new jobs and social projects.
