Article 4 — Powers and Functions of the Ministry

1/ The ministry shall have the following powers and functions to implement the provisions of this proclamation: a) Coordinates startup ecosystem development actors to create a conducive environment for startups; b) In accordance with this Proclamation and any rules and regulations issued pursuant to this Proclamation, it shall, at the discretion of the committee, grant a designation to a startup and startup ecosystem developer, renew, suspend or revoke the designation; c) Manage the Startup Grant Program; d) Conduct an annual evaluation and issue a report on the performance of Designated Startups and Designated Startup Ecosystem Builders that are recipients of incentives through the mechanisms of this Proclamation. 2/ Create and administer a Digital Startup platform. 3/ The Digital Startup Portal shall: a) Serve as the single-window access to relevant information about the Startup Ecosystem in Ethiopia; b) Receive and process applications for Startup Designation and Startup Ecosystem Builder Designation; c) Serve as a platform for interaction between the Startup Ecosystem Builders and other relevant institutions; 4/ Notwithstanding Sub-Article (3) of this Article, the Ministry may use the Digital Startup Portal to discharge other objectives as may be relevant to the conduct of powers and functions given to it under this Proclamation. 5/ It will work with the ministry of labor and skills, while maintaining its responsibility for coordinating and monitoring capacity building; 6/ Organize and coordinate events to create better understanding of the contribution of startup and innovation to the economy, in collaboration with the ministry of labor and skill; 7/ The ministry, in collaboration with the ministry of labor and skills, the ministry of industry and other governmental and non-governmental institutions, as well as private sector actors, shall organize a problem-solving competition and award at least once a year. 8/ The details of the competition and awards to be held pursuant to Sub-Article (7) of this Article shall be determined by a Directive issued by the ministry.