(Ecofin Agency) - As a way of identifying, rewarding as well as supporting the youth with the best projects (less than 2 years old) in enterprise creation and development, Total Uganda on Sunday, launched the Startupper Challenge of the Year.

The challenge is a $37,000 competition launched in 33 other African countries for youths from 35 years and below.  They are to compete for economic support, coaching from well-known entrepreneurs and visibility for the business.

“We have put an age limit of 35 years because we believe the youth are vital in realizing the social economic development of this country. The most unemployed group in Uganda is the youth and yet they have fresh minds and ideas that can help make Ugandans economy a better one. Also, most businesses in Uganda collapse because they lack financial support and guidance and we hope this project will be of some help," Florentin de Loppinot, Managing Director of Total Uganda said.

While giving his speech at the launching, Total E­&P General Manager, Adewale Fayemi revealed that the challenge is open to all types of businesses as far as they meet the required social and economic criteria.

The application process is to run from the November 1 to 31st of January 2016, East African Business Week reports.

Total has been in Uganda since 1995. Its participation in the country has been progressing over the years with 118 service stations nationwide.