ICT & Incubators

Creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs through innovation and technology
Young people account for up to 40% of the world’s unemployed, with nearly 90% living in developing countries. Many enter the informal economy or leave in search of better prospects elsewhere. PUM addresses this urgent challenge by supporting business incubators that help young entrepreneurs turn ideas into sustainable enterprises. At the same time, we advise SMEs on using IT to improve operations and manage growth. Together, incubation and digital solutions provide a powerful foundation for decent work and local economic development.

Incubators

PUM experts bring years of experience in setting up and strengthening business incubators. Through a hands-on, train-the-trainer approach, we support incubator staff with workshops, tools, and coaching to better assist local start-ups. We typically work with incubators for two to three years to help build a fully functioning centre covering key areas like marketing, product development, finance and sales. Our focus is on creating sustainable ecosystems, often in collaboration with universities, local authorities and funding partners.

ICT

Digital tools are essential for modern businesses including those emerging from incubators. As start-ups grow, they need reliable systems to manage operations, reach customers and scale up. PUM supports not only IT companies, but also SMEs in other sectors looking to apply technology effectively. Our experts assess business processes, recommend tailored IT solutions, and support their implementation. Whether it’s digital marketing, finance tools or customer systems ICT is a key enabler of sustainable growth, and a natural extension of the support offered within strong incubator programmes.

Incubators

Areas of Expertise

PUM supports incubators in guiding start-ups through each stage of development from idea to viable enterprise. Our experts focus on creating entrepreneurial environments where innovation can thrive, especially when linked to universities, technical institutes and access to finance.

• Shape ideas into services or products with market potential

• Develop a strong business model using tools like the Business Model Canvas

• Write a business plan and find first customers or funding

• Set up internal functions (marketing, finance, product development)

• Grow into SMEs with ongoing sales, cashflow and team development

How PUM supports incubators

We work in three phases to ensure impact and sustainability:

Phase 1 – Incubator project
Set-up support for new or existing incubators, including programme design, mentor training, and ecosystem building.

Phase 2 – Follow-up
Hands-on advice to strengthen the incubator’s operations, tools, and outcomes—plus support in defining success and attracting funding.

Phase 3 – Start-up support
PUM experts can be matched to individual start-ups selected by the incubator, providing tailored advice just like in our SME programmes.

Client example

From tech talent to thriving start-ups

An IT university in a developing region had set up an incubator to support young tech entrepreneurs but faced challenges such as limited business knowledge, weak networks and a lack of funding. In close collaboration with PUM, the incubator team developed a clear vision and mission, created a phased business plan and engaged with the Ministry of Economic Affairs—resulting in government support. Together, we strengthened the centre’s approach, making it more market-oriented and sustainable. The incubator now helps turn local talent into successful start-ups, creating new opportunities for young people and boosting regional innovation.

ICT

Areas of Expertise

PUM supports SMEs and incubators with practical, scalable ICT solutions that strengthen operations and open up new opportunities for growth.

• E-learning & blended learning
  Designing digital learning environments in regions with limited infrastructure, including LMS setup and curriculum development.

• CRM systems
  Selecting and implementing tools to manage customer relationships and improve client engagement.

• Business continuity & cybersecurity
  Safeguarding operations through risk assessment, backup strategies and secure information systems.

• ERP systems
  Streamlining logistics, finance and production through tailored ERP implementation plans.

• Digital marketing & web presence
  Enhancing online visibility, SEO and customer reach—crucial in competitive and tourism-driven markets.

• Content management
  Setting up efficient processes to keep websites and online platforms up to date with limited internal resources.

• E-commerce
  Developing practical strategies for online sales, including mobile, logistics and transaction systems.

Client example

Strengthening digital growth for young tourism businesses

In the Middle East, a local organisation supporting tourism start-ups asked for help to improve their digital presence. PUM collaborated with one of the businesses to develop an online marketing and e-commerce strategy. By analysing web traffic and fixing technical and SEO issues, visibility and performance improved significantly. A social media plan was also introduced—enhancing digital skills within the broader start-up community and helping young businesses grow their online revenue.

Professional people for positive impact

Looking to grow your business or organisation sustainably and build a brighter future for your community? Contact one of our representatives in your country for criteria, more information and guidance on the application process.