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Ao Kapijuknen Programme

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An Incubator Programme for Entrepreneurs in Tourism

Launched in 2021, Ao Kapijuknen or "My Homeland" is a new incubator programme focused on enabling entrepreneurs to start or grow a business in tourism in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Ao Kapijuknen was designed to expand economic opportunity, self-sufficiency and diversification of livelihoods whilst supporting the development of the tourism industry.

The incubator provides support through four core activities: seed funding, training, marketing and sales support and mentorship. After a successful pilot and Round 2, the programme is now seeking funding to continue an expansive Round 3 and progress its support to entrepreneurs and the development of tourism businesses in the RMI.

The programme was established thanks to funding from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Development Fund and in partnership with OCIT Tourism Division.

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Seed Funding

Seed funding grants of up to USD 15,000 are offered on a competitive basis, providing entrepreneurs with the opportunity to make their business dreams a reality.

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Training

A comprehensive training course is offered to those entrepreneurs who participate in the programme and includes business plan training, tourism practical skills and experiential learning opportunities.

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Marketing & Sales Support

Entrepreneurs who are part of the programme receive marketing support and promotion through the Ao Kapijuknen business profile platform and sales assistance from the OCIT Tourism Team.

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Mentorship

Ongoing mentorship and guidance from the OCIT Tourism team and hands on technical assistance is provided to all Ao Kapijuknen entrepreneurs through regular meetings, calls and networking events.

Awarded Businesses

Pikooj Island

Create the First Exclusive Private Island Vacation Business in Arno, Rearlaplap
Owned and Run by a Woman

Pikooj, Arno

Chessika Jim/Henry Kanram

New Beachouse and Amimono Store Establishment

Wotje Lodging and Crafts

Torko Weto, Wotje

Alexandria Johnny-Lajar & Rithen Lajar

Likiep Atoll Escape and Expedition

Establishing an oceanside bungalow on Likiep

Likiep, Likiep

Henriette and Christopher de Brum

E Leisure Corner Establishment & Bungalow Building

E Leisure Corner Establishment and Bungalow Building

Rongrong, Majuro

Estella Matthew

WAAM - KIN Iakwe Services

Land & Water Recreation

Batkan, Majuro

Wean Elmer & Kazutoyo Wase

Blue Oceans

Sustainable Electric Bus Transportation pilot project

Majuro, Majuro

Denise Reiher

Bokanbotin Island Getaway

Freshwater Harvesting System for Improved Business Continuity and Resilience on Bokanbotin

Bokanbotin, Majuro

Emma Kabua-Tibon and Sherwood Tibon

Latest Ao Kapijuknen News

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For further inquiries, email us at aokapijuknen@rmiocit.org

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