RevUp Women’s Initiative Concludes Inaugural Cohort with Celebration of Women’s History Month
RevUp Women’s Initiative Concludes Inaugural Cohort with Celebration of Women’s History Month As the world commemorates International Women’s month, AfriLabs is proud to announce its much-anticipated Rev Up Women Initiative Business Showcase event for the inaugural cohort, funded by Visa Foundation. Titled “RevUp Women: Investing in Women, Inspiring Futures,” this event will mark a significant milestone in empowering female entrepreneurs across Africa. It is scheduled to take place on March 22nd, 2024, at the Four Points by Sheraton in Victoria Island, Lagos. The RevUp Women initiative is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship among women, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and tailored support needed to thrive in their respective industries. This event serves as a platform to showcase the incredible achievements of the first cohort and inspire future generations of women entrepreneurs and leaders. The event activities will include a recap of RevUp Women’s first cohort, a look back at the journey of the inaugural cohort, highlighting their successes, challenges, and growth throughout the program. There will be a panel discussion on “Trailblazing Women: Navigating Challenges and Triumphs”: Engaging discussions with high-achieving female entrepreneurs who will share their inspiring success stories, offering valuable insights into overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness. Participants will have the chance to connect with panelists and fellow attendees, fostering valuable relationships and collaborations. The event will feature a powerful speech by a leading female figure in Africa, offering words of encouragement and motivation to all attendees. Additionally, outstanding trainees and entrepreneurs who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation and impact throughout the program will be recognized. Finally, for the highlight of the business showcase event, there will be an announcement of the ten winners from five African countries who will each receive a grant of $10,000 USD, funded by Visa Foundation. “We are thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our inaugural cohort and to honor the trailblazing women who have inspired us all,” said Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs. “This event not only celebrates past successes but also lays the groundwork for a future where women entrepreneurs continue to thrive, innovate, and lead change in their communities and beyond.” “Our work at Visa Foundation teaches us that financial and digital inclusion are powerful catalysts for change,” said Graham Macmillan, President, Visa Foundation. “By investing in an ecosystem that advances women and women-led businesses, we are helping build inclusive economies for everyone, everywhere.” Join us for the event on March 22nd, 2024, at the Four Points by Sheraton in Victoria Island, Lagos as we celebrate the resilience, creativity, and ingenuity of women entrepreneurs and chart a path forward towards greater gender equality and economic empowerment. We are excited to have you attend, RSVP by filling out this short form: Form About RevUp Women RevUp Women is an initiative dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs across Africa. Through mentorship, training, and access to resources, RevUp Women provides women with the support they need to start and grow successful businesses, driving economic growth and fostering gender equality. Learn more at RevUp Women For more information about AfriLabs and the Rev Up Women initiative, visit www.afrilabs.com & RevUp Women For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
Intel AI Programme Propels African DeepTech Ecosystem Forward: A Collaborative Success
Intel AI Programme Propels African DeepTech Ecosystem Forward: A Collaborative Success The Fraser Suites in Abuja, Nigeria, witnessed an exciting convergence of Africa’s brightest minds and innovative spirit as Intel and AfriLabs successfully concluded the Intel AI Programme for African DeepTech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders. From March 5th to 7th, 2024, attendees immersed themselves in a three-day journey of enlightenment, collaboration, and empowerment. The event, organized by AfriLabs in collaboration with Intel, aimed to propel growth and innovation in Nigeria’s DeepTech ecosystem. Participants from diverse backgrounds including government officials, industry experts, startups, developers, and ecosystem stakeholders convened to explore the challenges, opportunities, and prospects of DeepTech in Africa. The event commenced with opening remarks from esteemed government officials and representatives from Intel and AfriLabs. Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, Director of Government Affairs Africa and IGA CTO Liaison at Intel set the stage with an insightful presentation on the socio-economic and policy implications of DeepTech in Africa. This was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring high-level representatives from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Intel, and other industry partners, moderated by Jennifer Okeke-Ojiudu, Senior Ecosystem Engagements Manager at AfriLabs. The session provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the DeepTech ecosystem in Africa. Finally, day one culminated with a High-Level Roundtable Discussion on AI Policy, facilitated by Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo of Intel, engaging the Director-General of the National Centre for Technology Management, other Government Officials and AI Ecosystem Stakeholders. Day two of the event focused on empowering startups, developers, and innovation hubs with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the AI landscape. Highlights included an introduction to the Intel® Liftoff for AI Startups Program, presentations on the Intel Developer Cloud and OneAPI initiative, and valuable lessons learned from industry experts. The day concluded with presentations from leading innovation hubs, further enriching the discourse on DeepTech entrepreneurship and innovation in Nigeria. The final day of the event centered on building vibrant startup communities and fostering collaboration among ecosystem stakeholders. Keynote addresses by notable figures such as Ajibola Odukoya, Chief Operating Officer at AfriLabs, and Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, set the tone for engaging discussions on the role of government in driving innovation in Africa. Presentations from various innovation hubs underscored the importance of community-building and collaboration in nurturing Africa’s burgeoning DeepTech ecosystem. Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared vision in his address: “When I learned of the aims and objectives of this workshop, my enthusiasm for our ecosystem was truly ignited. At NITDA, we firmly believe that no single entity can navigate this landscape alone; collective effort is imperative. Our vision for Nigeria is one of digital empowerment, innovation-driven prosperity, and inclusive economic growth fostered by technology. The global AI race has commenced, and the nation’s leading it will shape the future. Africa, with its abundant talent and youthful population, is poised to play a significant role. In Nigeria, our path is clear: AI is our journey, our goals are defined, and our determination is unwavering.” Reflecting on the event’s success, Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs, remarked, “This collaboration has provided a platform for meaningful engagement, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, laying the groundwork for future innovation and growth across Africa.” As the curtains close on the Intel AI Programme for African DeepTech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders, the legacy of collaboration, innovation, and empowerment lives on. Looking ahead, the journey continues as Africa’s DeepTech community embarks on a path of growth, resilience, and boundless possibilities. To learn more about the program and AfriLabs’ participation, contact Jonathan at jonathan@afrilabs.com. For general information about AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com.
AfriLabs to Spearhead African Tech Delegation at LEAP 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
AfriLabs to Spearhead African Tech Delegation at LEAP 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia AfriLabs, the largest network of technology and innovation hubs across Africa, is excited to announce its participation in LEAP 2024, one of the most prestigious tech events globally, to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from March 3rd to 7th, 2024. LEAP, organized and hosted by Saudi Arabia, brings together tech entrepreneurs, startups, corporates, governments, investors, and other innovation players from around the world. The organization’s delegation to LEAP 2024 marks a noteworthy milestone in fostering collaboration and mutual growth in the technology and innovation sectors between Africa and Saudi Arabia. Members from the AfriLabs network, representing over 25 African countries will be present at LEAP. The delegation includes hub managers, entrepreneurs, innovators, mentors, and investors, who are all passionate about advancing the African innovation agenda. The primary objective of this delegation is to establish a direct investment pipeline, creating opportunities for innovation enablers, investors, and startups seeking to scale, invest in, or raise investments in both regions. “We are excited to lead a delegation representing the vibrant and dynamic innovations emerging from the African technology ecosystem at LEAP 2024,” said Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs. “With this delegation we envision forging strong ties between Africa and Saudi Arabia in the realm of technology and innovation, this collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships, and driving innovation-led growth.” AfriLabs is collaborating with key organizations in Saudi Arabia, including The Garage, the largest Innovation Hub in the region, the Ministry of Investment, and the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO), to facilitate meetings, investment conversations and showcase the continent’s vibrant tech ecosystem and its potential for innovation and growth. Moreover, the organization is pleased to announce that it will also be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Investment, Saudi Arabia, further solidifying our commitment to collaboration and mutual growth. LEAP 2024 presents a unique opportunity for AfriLabs and its delegation to gain insights into Saudi Arabia’s initiatives and strategies, fostering closer collaboration between the two regions and driving sustainable growth through technology and innovation. About AfriLabs AfriLabs is the largest network of technology and innovation hubs across Africa, driving the growth of Africa’s innovation ecosystem. With a mission to support the development of the African technology and innovation ecosystem, AfriLabs connects hubs and other stakeholders to facilitate collaboration, resource sharing, and knowledge transfer. For more information about AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabs.com and to learn more about LEAP 2024, visit LEAP 2024 For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs’ Annual Gathering 2024: Uniting Innovation in the Heart of Cape Town
AfriLabs’ Annual Gathering 2024: Uniting Innovation in the Heart of Cape Town Cape Town, South Africa – AfriLabs is proud to announce the much-anticipated Annual Gathering 2024, set to take place from the 5th – 8th of November at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Africa has long been a powerhouse of innovation, yet the disconnect among its ingenious thinkers has hindered the full potential of collaborative progress. Recognizing the imperative to bridge this gap under the theme of “Uniting Innovation,” the Annual Gathering 2024 embarks on a mission by creating a central nexus where African innovators, policy makers, investors, startups and thought leaders from all corners of the world can converge and amplify the impact of their ideas. This year’s event promises to be an exhilarating celebration bringing together the brightest minds, dynamic speakers, and visionaries from across the African continent. The gathering serves as a catalyst for inspiring and presenting diverse innovations, and innovation enablers, that have the potential to make a positive impact on a global scale. Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and networking, participants nurture new ideas and existing solutions, partnerships and aspirations for sustainable interventions. The Annual Gathering 2024 will feature a stellar lineup of attendees, including sitting and former heads of states & ministers, pan-African government officials, and representatives from pan-African bodies. The stage will be graced by distinguished speakers and moderators, supported by a team of translators to ensure a seamless exchange of ideas. Among the attendees are CEOs, start-up innovators, and captains of innovation. Exhibitors will showcase cutting-edge innovations, complimented by the infusion of creative talents, adding an artistic flair to the gathering and spearheading conversations that highlight the significant economic impact of the creative sector, which contributes billions of dollars to the African economy. A community of investors with a combined portfolio of over 300 million U.S dollars will be on the lookout for opportunities, making this a prime networking hub for those at the forefront of Africa’s innovation landscape. “Uniting Innovation is not just a theme; It’s a mission for AfriLabs. Our Annual Gathering 2024 embodies the spirit of unity and innovation. Together, we can break barriers and pave the way for a future where African ingenuity knows no limits in solving global challenges and in creating a more prosperous and sustainable future. ” said Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs. AfriLabs is poised to set the stage for a transformative experience that propels Africa to new heights. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this gathering. Join us in Cape Town from the 5th – 8th of November 2024 as we shape the future of Africa’s inspiring tech and innovation ecosystem. About AfriLabs AfriLabs is the largest network of technology and innovation hubs across Africa, driving the growth of Africa’s innovation ecosystem. With a mission to support the development of the African technology and innovation ecosystem, AfriLabs connects hubs and other stakeholders to facilitate collaboration, resource sharing, and knowledge transfer. For more information about the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 and AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabsgathering.com and www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs Collaborates with Leading Hubs for the Talent4Startups Program – Changing the Face of Employment In Africa
AfriLabs Collaborates with Leading Hubs for the Talent4Startups Program – Changing the Face of Employment In Africa AfriLabs, at the forefront of driving innovation in Africa, is excited to announce its collaboration with TechQuest STEM Academy Nigeria, Ibiz Incubation Centre Kenya, Icealex Egypt, Activspaces Cameroon, and Dream Factory South Africa for the Talent4Startups program. It is an integrated program developed and founded by Digital Africa meeting the needs of African early stage startups to recruit qualified talent, while offering training and then employment opportunities to young people benefiting from dedicated scholarships. AfriLabs, along with its partners, aims to train 200 youths in five African countries, representing each region of the continent. Notably, 40% of these aspiring youths will be women, highlighting our commitment to fostering gender inclusivity and diversity. This comprehensive training will equip participants with the skills necessary to secure positions in startups across Africa and enhance their professional capacity. The five vibrant African countries the programme is poised to be implemented in are; Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Kenya and Cameroon all of which are in urgent need of employment training programs according to data on ILO (International Labour Organization). The consortium of incubation centers, comprising TechQuest STEM Academy, Ibiz Incubation Centre, Icealex, Activspaces, and Dream Factory, brings a wealth of experience to the table especially focused on training young talents for employment and providing them with essential skills. The program will span 10 weeks, including 6 weeks of technical training, 2 weeks of hands-on training, and 2 weeks of soft skills development, leading up to a job placement activity on the last day which promises to be nothing short of a launching pad to success. Following the training period, participants will undergo a matching process, connecting them with startups and organizations in need of their newfound skills. “We are excited to be part of this transformative initiative that addresses a critical need in the African startup ecosystem. The Talent4Startups program aligns with AfriLabs’ commitment to fostering innovation and empowering the next generation of tech leaders across the continent,” said Nanko Madu, Director of Programmes at AfriLabs. The stage is set, and applications for the Talent4startups program are now open! We are inviting individuals from across Africa to seize this opportunity— apply now at Talent4startups before submissions end on the 25th of February. Visit Talent4startups to learn more about the program or contact Funmilayo on funmilayo@afrilabs.com. For general information about AfriLabs please visit www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs Revolutionizes Investment Landscape with the Launch of AfriLabs Connect Deal Room
AfriLabs Revolutionizes Investment Landscape with the Launch of AfriLabs Connect Deal Room AfriLabs, the pioneering force in Africa’s innovation ecosystem, unveiled the AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR) during the 2023 Annual Gathering event. The ACDR addresses the critical challenges of identifying, funding and accessing investible startups in Africa. The primary mission of ACDR is to streamline financing for innovative startups across diverse sectors in Africa while providing investment funds access to a Pan-African pipeline of investible and de-risked startups. AfriLabs’ Chief Operating Officer, Ajibola Odukoya, inaugurated this strategic initiative, signaling a pivotal moment for the continent’s innovation landscape. Promoting a dynamic investment ecosystem, funds and investors can register their portfolio startups into a private pool through the Deal Room. This pool makes it easier to match companies precisely based on factors like ticket sizes, sector of interest, and detailed specifications using AI. Additionally, AfriLabs’ vast network of over 500 physical innovation and technology hubs spread across 54 countries and over 250 cities, facilitates the provision of follow-up support for ACDR’s effort by fostering Pan-African collaboration and offering additional investment readiness resources to the startup founders involved in the initiative. Global venture capital networks such as Renew Capital, International Accelerators, Neterra Capital and business support tools and services such as Silicon Valley in Your Pocket are pioneer partners in the AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR). Ajibola Odukoya, Chief Operating Officer of AfriLabs, highlighted ACDR’s strategic focus, stating, “AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR) is targeted at hubs with mature startups aiming to scale with sizable PreSeries, Series A, B, and C type of funds. We’ve lined up an investor pipeline that has Africa in mind. These investors are adapting their business processes to the continent, and they are ready to work with startups looking to scale up.” The ACDR will operate on AfriLabs Connect, a purpose-built ecosystem engagement platform that assembles Africa’s largest community of innovation enablers. This initiative marks a transformative step towards propelling Africa’s startup ecosystem to new heights, reinforcing AfriLabs’ commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth across the continent. For more information about the AfriLabs Connect Deal Room and AfriLabs, visit AfriLabs Connect Deal Room and www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs Admits New Board Members to Steer Technology and Innovation throughout the African continent
AfriLabs Admits New Board Members to Steer Technology and Innovation throughout the African continent AfriLabs, the largest pan-African network of technology and innovation hubs, is thrilled to announce the addition of esteemed technology and innovation professionals to its board. This followed the successful Annual General Meeting held on the 11th of October, 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda. Moetaz Helmy, the co-founder of KMT, Egypt, has been re-elected as the Board Chair. With a decade of dedication to leveraging entrepreneurship and innovation for Africa’s economic development, Moetaz is poised to collaborate with governments, multilateral organizations, and corporations that share a similar vision, committed to unlocking impactful and profitable business opportunities. Steve Tchoumba, the Executive Director of ActivSpaces Cameroon, has been re-elected as the Board Secretary, transitioning from his previous role as the Board Treasurer. Steve brings a wealth of experience in HR Consulting, Sales, Marketing, Training, and Education, showcasing his strong business development prowess. Joining them is the distinguished entrepreneur and innovation enthusiast Jeremy Riro, the founder and innovation lead at Fie_Labs Innovation Hub, Kenya. Jeremy is recognized for his expertise in entrepreneurship, economic development, and structural transformation in Africa. He specializes in supporting businesses to raise capital, optimize capital structures, and manage cash flows. Returning to the board is Dr. Itoro Emembolu, the Director of TechQuest STEM Academy, Nigeria. Dr. Emembolu’s exceptional communication skills have facilitated regional, international, and multi-cultural collaborations, resulting in numerous STEM workshops and 14 publications. Welcoming new perspectives to the board, David Ogiga, co-founder of Sote Hub in Kenya, joins AfriLabs. David is passionate about youth employment, entrepreneurship, and technology, making him a valuable addition to the team. Rene Parker, the CEO of RLabs, a global social enterprise that empowers millions of people across 23 countries through technology, innovation and entrepreneurship has been appointed as AfriLabs new Southern Africa board member. She is also a social impact entrepreneur, a Schwab Foundation Social Innovator of the Year 2022, and a 2019-2021 Africa Netpreneur Prize Judge. Madeline Ileleji, Business Development Manager at Jokkolabs Banju, brings her passion for the African tech and innovation ecosystem to the board as a new member. Ahmed Bastawy, the Managing Director and founder of Icealex, Egypt, is a seasoned innovation consultant and senior programs architect. Ahmed’s expertise in entrepreneurship, impact investment, and social innovation, along with his international experience, will undoubtedly contribute to AfriLabs’ growth. Completing the stellar lineup is Berry Numbi, the Board Chair at Ukamili Digital City. Berry’s skills in leading and overseeing hub strategic and operational activities, including networking, stakeholder management, administration, and incubation programs, make him an invaluable asset to the board. AfriLabs is excited about the depth of experience and breadth of specialization that these accomplished individuals offer. The recently elected board members have the potential to lead AfriLabs to even greater success in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation throughout the African continent. For more information about the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023 and AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabsgathering.com and www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs and Nigerian Deputy Speaker Forge Alliance to Shape the Future of Innovation in Nigeria: Unveiling Strategic Collaboration for Policy and Progress.
AfriLabs and Nigerian Deputy Speaker Forge Alliance to Shape the Future of Innovation in Nigeria: Unveiling Strategic Collaboration for Policy and Progress. In its recent efforts to foster ties with governments globally, a delegation from AfriLabs, the largest innovation-focused organization in Africa, paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, to discuss the future of the Nigerian innovation ecosystem and explore opportunities for partnership and support. The meeting was part of AfriLabs’ ongoing efforts to engage with key policymakers and stakeholders in Africa. AfriLabs is a dynamic innovation-focused organization dedicated to empowering and uniting innovation hubs and stakeholders across various African countries. The organization’s mission is to support innovation hubs in cultivating high-potential entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth, and promoting social development across Africa. AfriLabs achieves this through capacity building, financing, networking, policy advocacy, and providing reliable data, envisioning a thriving innovation economy in Africa. The organization offers a dynamic array of programs and events that serve as a vibrant nexus for innovation across Africa. These initiatives create collaborative spaces and knowledge-sharing platforms, propelling startups and tech communities towards accelerated growth and impactful networking. During the meeting, the Deputy Speaker, who gave a keynote address at the just-concluded AfriLabs Annual Gathering in Kigali, expressed his gratitude for AfriLabs and its member hubs. He emphasized the organization’s important role in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation throughout Africa. He also disclosed that the Nigerian National Assembly is about to introduce an application called “NASS Eyes” to track budget transparency and execution by government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The Deputy Speaker also highlighted his office’s commitment to the implementation of supportive policies and regulations to address both the challenges and opportunities within Nigeria’s tech sector. He believes that the country has the potential for innovation and exponential growth within its digital economy if the right tools and policies of government are implemented. AfriLabs Executive Director, Anna Ekeledo, who led the AfriLabs delegation, appreciated the Deputy Speaker for his steadfast support and engagement, recognizing the vital role he plays in advancing the organization’s vision to build a thriving innovation economy across the continent. She also expressed AfriLabs’ dedication to playing a more substantial policy role in the Nigerian innovation arena. “We look forward to more engagements with the office of the Deputy Speaker on policies for female financial inclusion, and facilitate more stakeholder policy dialogues,” she said. Anna also apprised the Deputy Speaker of AfriLabs’ significant role in extending multilateral support systems to numerous entities across the African hemisphere, particularly focusing on capacity building initiatives. She highlighted the organization’s proactive engagement in collaborative programs with international organizations and multilateral development finance institutions. AfriLabs has been at the forefront of promoting innovation policy throughout Africa, and they believe that the right policies are critical to the continent’s innovation economy’s revival and long-term growth. Shifting the spotlight to Nigeria, this partnership is poised to further AfriLabs’ ongoing efforts to unlock and accelerate Africa’s digital economy, signaling a dedicated commitment to advancing technological innovation and economic growth within the Nigerian context. The AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023 in Kigali served as a platform for visionaries, government officials, startups, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders to come together and delve into critical policy-related challenges and strategies for data-driven decision-making and governance. The high-level dialogue, which honed in on policy harmonization, was an integral part of it, bringing key stakeholders together to address and strategize on aligning policies for the collective advancement of the African innovation ecosystem. AfriLabs has partnered with the UNDP Accelerator Labs to advance the development agenda in Africa – through capacity development, linking policy and practice to advance innovation as a driver for development. The organization has also joined forces with the United States Department of State’s Office of Global Partnerships (E/GP) earlier this year to address the climate crisis and promote entrepreneurship in Africa. To further emphasize AfriLabs commitment to driving policy harmonization,in Africa, the organization unveiled its partnership with Algeria Venture, at this year’s AfriLabs Annual Gathering event which took place in Kigali, Rwanda. The partnership aims to identify areas of potential joint initiatives where both organizations may seek and analyze cooperation opportunities, encourage innovation and support in the management, funding and promotion of the startup ecosystem across Africa. AfriLabs remains dedicated to strengthening connections with governments worldwide, with a renewed emphasis on Nigeria. By aligning efforts with the Deputy Speaker’s office and other key stakeholders, AfriLabs is poised to play a vital role in shaping and advancing the Nigerian Innovation ecosystem. For media inquiries, please contact jen@afrilabs.com, ifunanya@afrilabs.com, and joshua@afrilabs.com.
Intel and AfriLabs collaborate to support the African Deep Tech Startup Ecosystem
AfriLabs is excited to announce that we have partnered with the global manufacturer of advanced integrated digital technology platforms, Intel to gain a deeper understanding of the African deep-tech startup ecosystem and identify pathways in which Intel can extend their support to deep tech startups on the continent. The startup scene in Africa has experienced incredible growth in recent years, and this is partly a result of several significant interventions by stakeholders to enable entrepreneurship and innovation in local ecosystems. AfriLabs and Intel’s collaboration hopes to sustainably build on the work done and set a framework for future interventions. “To give more impactful support to the startup ecosystem in Africa, we need to consider specialised capacity building. Different kinds of startups need different kinds of support, and the AfriLabs partnership with Intel explores learning more about how we could better support deep tech ventures. I am particularly excited about this collaboration and how it would lay the foundation for deeper interactions between the ecosystem and big global tech players like Intel.” Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director, AfriLabs said during her opening remarks. At the official partnership agreement signing ceremony on the 24th of May, 2022, Intel was represented by Maurits Tichelman, Vice President SMG & GM EMEA Territory, Intel (virtual), Dr Bienvenu AGBOKPONTO SOGLO, Director, Government Affairs Africa and EMEA CTO Liaison, Intel (onsite), Kate Hach, Head of Program, Intel Ignite’s accelerator (virtual) and the Emerging Markets Director for Government and Education of Intel Corporation, Mr Sven Beckmann (virtual). “As part of our desire to support the African Startups Ecosystem, Intel is looking to learn from and harvest new technology disruptions that will help position Intel’s Business in Africa in areas such as Healthcare, Fintech, Agriculture, E-commerce, Mobility, Hardware/IoT that are enabled by Intel Technologies.” said Maurits Tichelman, Vice President SMG & GM EMEA Territory, Intel during the signing ceremony. “It is in this regard, that we are signing a collaboration agreement with AfriLabs” he continued. Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director of AfriLabs, Daniel Chinagozi, Member of the AfriLabs Board, Ajibola Odukoya, AfriLabs COO, Nekesa Were, Director of Strategy, AfriLabs, Felista Aku, Partnerships Manager at AfriLabs and other members of the AfriLabs team represented the AfriLabs. A cross-section of high-level local and regional innovation ecosystem key players was also present. The partnership will leverage AfriLabs’ pan-African reach to map startups and ecosystem stakeholders and provide recommendations for future modes of collaboration that will ensure continuous deal flow and establish a presence for Intel. Dr Bienvenu AGBOKPONTO SOGLO, Director Government Affairs Africa & EMEA CTO Liaison, Intel also spoke about the organisation’s ambition: “As Intel looks ahead to the next decade, our ambitions and opportunities have never been greater to unleash the power of data and help advance integrated corporate responsibility strategies in which companies use collaborative models to drive increased value creation and societal impact.” A prominent outcome of this partnership is that African startups in deep-tech will be introduced to Intel programs: Intel Ignite and Intel OneAPI for startups. A hybrid workshop focused on these programs was held after the signing ceremony with several startups from across the continent in attendance. Stay tuned as we share more about the activities of this partnership and how you can be a part of it. For more information, reach out to Felista Aku at felista@afrilabs.com.
AfriLabs and Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs, Kenya sign MoU to support grassroots hubs
The largest network of innovation hubs in Africa, AfriLabs and the Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs (ACIH) have signed a comprehensive long-term partnership to co-create capacity building interventions, foster rural innovations, and create training and mentorship programs for grassroots hubs in Africa. It is common knowledge that most innovation support in Africa is focused on the continent’s urban centres. This has slowed down the growth of the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems in peri-urban and rural areas. This partnership aims to address this gap and tap into the innovation potential outside the big cities. “Innovation takes place everywhere. The role of entrepreneur support organisations like AfriLabs and the Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs in Kenya is to find, support and amplify these innovators to help them have maximum impact. AfriLabs is delighted to begin work with the Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs in Kenya to ensure that our entrepreneur support hubs and the communities they serve, regardless of their geographical location, have an equal chance to thrive.” Nekesa Were, Director of Strategy, AfriLabs said during her speech at the signing event at Rift Valley Innovation Centre. Magdaline Chepkemoi, Chairperson of Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs and Nekesa Were, AfriLabs Director of Strategy officially sign the MOU. Witnessed by (l-r): Benjamin Towet, Manager of Rift Valley Innovation Centre, State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary, Esther Koimett and Engineer John Tanui CEO of Konza Technopolis and Patron of Rift Valley Innovation Centre. Picture credit: Rift Valley Innovation Centre. The collaboration will co-create and implement capacity building programs for AfriLabs and ACIH grassroots member hubs to support peri-urban and rural innovations. It will also support the creation of a more robust, more coordinated Pan African ecosystem among the numerous technology and innovation hubs currently operating on the continent. “What a milestone. When two visionary membership organisations like the Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs and Afrilabs come together, it can only mean one thing, a plus for African startups and communities. Through this collaboration, we are looking forward to an inclusive innovation ecosystem in Africa, and becoming a source of prosperity for all, by strengthening grassroots hubs to foster rural and peri-urban innovations and strong links with technology and innovation hubs across the continent.” Chepkemoi Magdaline, Chairperson, Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs commented while speaking to the press at the signing ceremony. For more information on this partnership, kindly send an email to joshua@afrilabs.com and pauline.nthambi@countrywidehubs.org ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. About AfriLabs AfriLabs is a network organisation supporting over 340 Innovation Centres across 52 African countries, founded upon the mission of building a community around the rapidly emerging technology hubs in Africa. These hubs serve as centres that provide support to African entrepreneurs, innovators, developers, and youths. By providing physical co-working and dedicated office spaces, as well as inclusive training and business, legal and financial support, we play an active role in helping to raise successful entrepreneurs who will create jobs and develop innovative solutions to African problems. About Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs (ACIH) The Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs (ACIH) is a network of innovation hubs based outside Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi. Its current membership comprises over 56 Technology and Innovation Hubs that are sector agnostic, with startups in diverse fields of agribusiness, finTech, Edtech, Energy, Blue economy, Environment & Conservation as well as FCMG among others. Our Mission is to foster innovation, entrepreneurship and Technology and contribute to the greater goals of development through innovation, mentorship, research and policy input. Our main objective is to: promote activities and programs of the member hubs and support their vision of testing and building impactful sustainable businesses in rural and second-tier towns of Kenya. We work to deliver on our mandate by: Capacity building and resource mobilization to support the activities of individual startups and member hubs, Exploring and running joint programs that are of mutual benefit to members and the target groups, Providing an opportunity for joint research, expert opinion and the central point where different information on startups and thematic core areas can be sought and verified and Engaging local and national governments in policy frameworks or programs to enhance the activities and sustainability of startup enablers.