A leading initiative dedicated to empowering startups across Nigeria, STEP, partnered with StartupSouth9 to host a two-day event in Port Harcourt on October 3rd and 4th, 2024. The event aimed to strengthen the South-South and South-East regions by connecting startups with essential resources like growth strategies, funding opportunities, and mentorship.
Over 2,500 attendees and 70 speakers, including notable figures like Jane Egerton-Idehen (MD of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited), Arthur Uche (CEO of Beyond Clothing), and Abayomi Adebanjo (Regional Head at Main One), participated in panel discussions, workshops, and side sessions. The event featured 15 workshops offering valuable insights and actionable strategies for entrepreneurs.
The Country Director of the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, Oyinkan Akintola-Bello, virtually addressed an audience of over 1,000, highlighting the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s tech ecosystem through the Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP). She emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, private sectors, and startups to improve infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and develop a skilled digital workforce.
STEP, a partnership between the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub and IDEA Africa, bridges the gap between startups seeking talent and skilled professionals looking for opportunities. The event included a fireside chat on “Build for Growth: Growth Hacking Strategies for Startups,” anchored by Chisom Egwuatu (Project Lead for STEP) and Adeshina Adewumi (CEO of Trade Lenda).
A panel discussion titled “Mapping Growth: Insights and Strategies for Building a Thriving Innovation Ecosystem” explored the roles of government, startups, investors, established organizations, talent, mentors, research institutions, and innovation hubs in fostering a robust innovation ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa.
Beyond knowledge sharing, the event facilitated networking opportunities, enabling startups to connect with investors, industry professionals, and fellow entrepreneurs. These connections are expected to lead to partnerships, mentorship, and potential funding opportunities, helping startups in the region overcome challenges and unlock new growth pathways.