Interswitch Group, a leading integrated payments and digital commerce company in Africa, recently hosted the inaugural edition of its startup innovation mixer at the Interswitch Innovation Hub in Lagos.
Themed “Unlocking Synergies between Startups and Established Corporates,” the event, held on January 24, 2025, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from the tech, fintech, and payments industries, including Interswitch alumni.
This Innovation Mixer aims to bridge the gap between startups and established businesses by providing a platform for collaboration, idea sharing, and partnership building. The program is designed to foster a vibrant community that connects innovators, tech enthusiasts, investors, and industry leaders.
Adaobi Okerekeocha, Chief Innovation Officer at Interswitch, emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving innovation within Africa’s tech ecosystem. “At Interswitch, we believe collaboration is the bedrock of innovation. This mixer represents a pivotal step toward unlocking new possibilities and fostering a vibrant community where startups and established corporates can thrive,” she said.
The event featured panel discussions, including one moderated by Akeem Hassan, Technical Adviser to the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Lagos State Government. Panelists, including Esther Otusanya from Endeavor Nigeria, Linda Ochugbua from BusinessDay, and Olapeju Nwanganga, Founder of Pepcode, explored practical ways to strengthen collaboration between startups and established corporates.
Participants engaged in stimulating discussions, networked, and toured Interswitch’s Innovation and Ventures Labs, providing co-working spaces for partners and startup companies. The event also showcased inspiring success stories and examples of transformative partnerships fostered by Interswitch, demonstrating its commitment to shaping the future of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.