The Canoe Race is a TV reality program (IT IS NOT A CANOE RACE - NO PADDLING INVOLVED) - the first ever to be produced in Vanuatu - aimed at showcasing and inspiring entrepreneurs in the country !
The Name "The Canoe Race" come from the journeys that our ancestors were taking while sailing their canoes to discover new territories. This adventures came with great dangers and risks. Similarly today, a new generations of people are willing to take risks to undertake perillous journeys that will take them to their final destinations. These are the VANUATU ENTREPRENEURS.
The Canoe Race is an innovative co-production between V-Lab and VBTC, with funding from the Goverment of Australia. The first season of the show is expected to be broadcasted in February 2025. It will be composed of 6 episodes of 52mn each. During these episodes, 6 selected participants will undertake a series of business related challenges and compete against each other to win the first prize !
An innovative business is a business that offers products and services that are new in Vanuatu or that use new systems and solutions (such as digital tools, applications, etc.)
What is an innovative business?
An innovative business is a business that offers products and services that are new in Vanuatu or that use new systems and solutions (such as digital tools, applications, etc.)
What is a business project?
A business project goes beyond just an idea for a product or service. For instance, a business plan have been developed and / or research has been conducted, demonstrating the concept, financial planning and vision. For a product, this would mean for instance having already built a prototype.
I have an idea of a product or service, but I have not really acted on it yet. Can I still apply?
Candidates with at least a concrete concept, including an already formulated business plan, a prototype designed or researched conducted are encouraged to apply.
I have a non for profit idea, can I submit it?
Yes !
Do I have to be live in Port Vila to apply?
No. The Canoe Race is open to candidates throughout Vanuatu
Will I get paid for my participation?
No.
Would accommodation or transport be covered during the shooting of the show if I don’t live on Efate?
No. Candidates would be expected to find their own accommodation and cover any related costs. In exceptionnal circumstances, transportation costs could be eventually covered.
Will applying to the program cost me anything?
The actual application is free (apart from the potential cost in sending a short video). Otherwise the primary cost would be time, as successful applicants are expected to be free for two days a week from January to March.
We are a team of two working on a project can we both apply?
Yes. However only one person will be allowed to carry the project through the Canoe Race (ie taking part in the challenges and presenting to judges).
Can I ask someone else to participate on behalf of my business or project?
Yes but participants should be directly involved in the business or project
I have a long-standing business that has been up and running for a number of years, can I still apply?
Yes, the Canoe Race is open to all entrepreneurs wishing to take their project or business to the next level.
I have a business (or idea for a business) abroad. Can I apply?
No. The projects should be based in Vanuatu and covering Vanuatu as its primary market
Can I submit more than one application (business project)?
Yes, however, only one project can be selected to proceed in the Canoe Race
What language will the show be in? Can I apply in Bislama?
The show will be in Bislama. Nevertheless, to aid in the selection of candidates, applications should be made in English. The video can be made in Bislama
Do I need to provide financial information on my business or project?
Yes. The financial information of the business or project will be scrutinized as part of the Canoe Race process. Clear transparent information will therefore be required
Are there any other rules or expectations Candidates should be aware of?
Yes. Candidates are expected to adhere to the Canoe Race code of conduct. This includes, but is not limited to the following:
Candidates are expected to comply with all local rules and regulations.
Business projects should be carried by entrepreneurs rather than elected officials and have no political affiliations
Candidates are expected to own all of the Intellectual Property in your business/project (for example, company logos, business name, trademarks, etc.)
Candidates are responsible to ensure that all information provided to the Canoe Race is, to the best of their knowledge, accurate and complete.
Is this a PADDLING Race?
NO ! There wont be any canoe racing / paddling involved or any other physical activity in the show. The challenges that the contestants will take will all be related to managing a business.
Thank you to the Canoe Race Sponsors !
The Reserve Bank of Vanuatu - PLATINUM SPONSOR
Vodafone and New Zealand Governement - GOLD SPONSORS