Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

We believe that the success of startups in Africa largely hinges on innovation. Join Mayowa Okegbenle CEO of PressOne Africa, at the Lagos StartUp Week as he discusses the secrets to building a startup that lasts and achieves market dominance. Secure your spot now and join the conversation, learn how innovative solutions are shaping the future of startups in Africa! #PressOneAfrica #LagosStartUpWeek #startupsuccess

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How can we prioritise founder wellbeing in Africa’s booming tech ecosystem?  Leading venture capital firm Flourish Ventures has launched the founder wellbeing report titled, “Passion and Perseverance: Voices from the African Founder Journey. It is the first large-scale survey offering an in-depth look at the well-being of African tech founders. With insights from over 160 founders across 13 countries, the report offers a unique look at the challenges and strengths of the entrepreneurial journey in Africa. 🌍 Here are some key findings: 1️⃣. 86% of African founders report significant impacts on their wellbeing, with many experiencing high levels of stress, burnout, and anxiety 2️⃣. Despite the pressures, the passion for entrepreneurship remains strong - 81% of founders say they enjoy the founder journey. 3️⃣. Over 60% of founders use healthy habits like exercise, sleep, and balanced eating to manage stress - demonstrating the importance of self-care. 4️⃣. Nearly two-thirds would prefer to start a new venture rather than take a job if their current startup were to fail. 5️⃣. Top three sources of stress from macroeconomic impacts are:  fundraising (59%), inflation (44%), and other macroeconomic challenges (40%). The report offers actionable recommendations for investors and the broader ecosystem to support African founders' well-being. "Prioritising founder wellbeing boosts both their personal lives and the long-term success of their businesses," says Venture Partner Ameya Upadhyay. More details in this story by TechCabal https://lnkd.in/dwsZ_4TJ #FounderWellbeing #FlourishVentures #AfricanTech #Startup

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Are you a technology-driven startup, passionate about leveraging innovations in the financial services sector to solve Africa’s most complex development challenges? Do you have a scalable solution with a defensible position and clear monetization strategy? Then the timbuktoo Fintech Startup Accelerator Programme is for you! The timbuktoo Fintech Startup Accelerator Programme is supporting startups that: - Are deploying technology solutions in the financial services sector: These are startups that have a technology-enabled solution at its core, utilising digital tools and platforms to drive innovation and efficiency in the financial sector. - Are contributing towards the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs): Startups whose solutions contribute towards one or more of the SDGs, by promoting growth, industrialisation, trade, education, health, and inclusive governance among others. - Are highly scalable: Startups that demonstrate high scalability either through digital distribution channels or the ability to scale their user base rapidly across markets in Africa. - Hold a defensible position: Startups that have a defensible position, whether through Intellectual Property (IP) rights, network effects, domain expertise, or regional market dominance - ensuring sustainable competitive advantage in the fintech landscape. - Have a strong monetisation strategy: Startups with a clear and sustainable monetisation strategy, showcasing a path to profitability and long-term financial viability The most promising startups from bootcamp will receive long-term tailored support for 5 months from August 2024 to December 2024.  With this curated approach coaching, product refinement, and scaling will be provided to startups. Additionally, partnerships will be facilitated to spur product iterations, market access and capital raising for the startups. Startups selected for incubation and acceleration will have the opportunity to receive equity-free funding of up to $25,000 USD. Read more on how to apply https://lnkd.in/di8FuvNm UNDP Zambia UNDP

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𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗪𝗲 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 (𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝗼) ✨ At Lagos Angel Network (LAN), we have a special place in our hearts for Angel Investors. Their unique role in the startup ecosystem is something we cherish and believe you should too. Here's why: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 💡 Angel Investors are often the first believers in a startup's vision. They back ideas that might seem too risky for traditional investors, providing crucial early-stage funding that can turn dreams into reality. This willingness to take risks fosters #innovation and encourages entrepreneurs to push the boundaries of what's possible. 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 🗺️ Beyond their financial contributions, Angel Investors bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the table. Many have walked the entrepreneurial path themselves and are eager to share their knowledge. They become #mentors, guiding startups through the challenges of building a business, offering strategic advice, and opening doors to valuable networks. 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 🤝 Unlike larger institutional investors, #AngelInvestors often have a more personal approach. They invest not just in the business, but in the people behind it. This means startups receive tailored #support, emotional backing, and a strong sense of partnership, which can be incredibly motivating and empowering. 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵 🚀 Angel Investors play a crucial role in accelerating a startup’s growth. Their investment can help #startups achieve key milestones, attract additional funding, and #scale operations more effectively. They provide the initial push that can propel a business to new heights. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 🏢 Angel Investors are integral to creating vibrant startup communities. By supporting local entrepreneurs, they help build a robust ecosystem that attracts more talent, #investment, and opportunities. Their involvement fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, benefiting the entire community. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝗼 💞 At LAN, we celebrate the incredible impact Angel Investors have on our startups and the broader entrepreneurial landscape. Their belief in the #powerofideas, their willingness to take #risks, and their unwavering support make them indispensable to the journey of innovation. So, here's to Angel Investors – the unsung heroes of the startup world. We love them, and we think you should too! 🌟 Let’s continue to innovate, collaborate, and build together. Adeolu Adewumi-Zer | Kola A. | Olumide Soyombo | Biola Alabi | Yemi Keri | Iyinoluwa Aboyeji | Adedotun (Dotun) Sulaiman | Harry 'Tomi Davies | Solomon King

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Just had an incredible experience at the 14th Africa Bank 4.0 Summit – Pan Africa! Organised by BII and sponsored by ICPS and other affiliated companys in the banking & payment space. It was an honor to be a panellist discussing the "Fintech Ecosystem in Africa: Investment Trends, Collaboration, and the Path Forward." Representing Afrex our early-stage start-up in the payment gateway space, I shared insights on our journey towards solving financial inclusion and educating the public on the best practices of using the Afrex product and services. I also had the chance to talk about my experience within the digital asset space as an early investor in Bitcoin, highlighting the pros and cons of the industry. We discussed the importance of regulation for businesses like ours and how banks play a crucial role in our business model by positively providing exposure to a broader customer base. Excited for what lies ahead and grateful for the opponutuity to be invited by Fahd Ali Akmal once again cheers for the inspiring intro and conversations with our moderator Asha Kamenge & Ajmal Basheer and connections Ian N: Co-Founder & CTO | Fingo Africa, John Frank Githiaka :Chief Executive Officer | Benkiko DAO, Geoffrey Mulei : Co-Founder & CEO | Tanda made at the summit! #AfricaBank4Summit #Fintech #Afrex #FinancialInclusion #DigitalBanking #Bitcoin #DigitalAssets #Innovation #Regulation

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Techlerator and Northern Founders Community Partner to Drive Tech and Entrepreneurial Growth in Northern Nigeria We are thrilled to announce a transformative partnership between Techlerator, a pioneering Edtech company dedicated to upskilling underserved communities, and Northern Founders Community, a dynamic network fostering entrepreneurial growth and innovation in Northern Nigeria. Techlerator is committed to transforming tech talents into immediate workforce assets through innovative upskilling and reskilling programs tailored to the needs of global workforces. Our focus is on bridging the skills gap and providing opportunities for individuals to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Northern Founders Community stands as a catalyst for entrepreneurial success, offering a vibrant ecosystem where founders, startups, and businesses can connect, collaborate, and grow. With a focus on mentoring, networking, and resource sharing, Northern Founders Community empowers entrepreneurs to turn their visions into reality and drive regional economic development. This partnership represents a fusion of expertise aimed at driving tech skill development and entrepreneurial growth. Together, we will spearhead the delivery of capacity-building programs, recruitment initiatives, and collaborative projects designed to empower individuals and businesses alike. Techlerator and Northern Founders Community are committed to driving positive change through our partnership, unlocking new opportunities, fostering talent development, and shaping the future of the tech industry in Nigeria. #NFC #Partnership #Strategic #Tech #thefuture #startup #techlerator

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✍️This Week’s Spotlight: Ronnie Lutaro – Driving Tech Innovation at StartHub Africa Meet Ronnie Lutaro, the brilliant mind behind Venture Pipeline Development at StartHub Africa. Ronnie is at the forefront of guiding tech startups across Africa toward success. His expertise in technical product development and software engineering goes beyond just building products; he helps startups create scalable, innovative solutions that address real-world challenges. 📌With a passion for mentorship, Ronnie takes founders through every stage of product development, from shaping initial concepts to launching market-ready solutions. His deep understanding of user research, product design, and software development helps entrepreneurs craft strong business models, attract customers, and drive revenue, ensuring their ventures not only innovate but succeed commercially. Ronnie's true strength lies in his adaptability. In a constantly evolving tech landscape, his ability to quickly learn, pivot, and develop new strategies turns challenges into opportunities. Under his guidance, startups don’t just navigate obstacles—they flourish, staying ahead of both market demands and technological shifts. When asked about his journey with StartHub Africa, Ronnie shared, “I was drawn to StartHub Africa because it offers a unique platform to shape the future of technology innovation in Africa. Every day, I’m driven by the opportunity to nurture Africa’s next generation of tech innovators and empower them to make a lasting impact.” 👉Want to learn from or collaborate with Ronnie Lutaro? Connect with him today and be part of Africa's tech revolution! #StartHubFamily StartHub Africa| Ronnie Lutaro

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Post 1: The Rise of Fintech in Africa Industry Insight: Fintech is revolutionising financial services across Africa, providing access to banking for the unbanked and underbanked populations. Countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are leading the way with mobile money platforms like M-Pesa and innovative payment solutions. Regional Developments: East Africa: Kenya ·      Volume of Mobile Payment Transactions: In 2023, Kenya recorded mobile transactions worth $55.1 billion. ·      Number of Digital Banks: Kenya has seen the entry of digital banks like Umba, which launched operations in early 2023. ·      Number of People Using Services: Approximately 84% of internet users in Kenya use mobile payments. M-Pesa alone has over 50 million active monthly users across Africa. West Africa: Nigeria ·      Volume of Mobile Payment Transactions: Nigeria is a significant player in mobile payments, with a substantial share of the 45 billion transactions made in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2022. ·      Number of Digital Banks: Nigeria hosts several digital banks, including Chipper Cash, Alat, and Kuda, contributing to the 21 digital banks active in Africa. ·      Number of People Using Services: Around 60% of internet users in Nigeria use mobile payments. Southern Africa: South Africa ·      Volume of Mobile Payment Transactions: South Africa is part of the leading regions in mobile money transactions, contributing to the 45 billion transactions in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2022. ·      Number of Digital Banks: South Africa has a robust digital banking sector with banks like Bettr and TymeBank, which have millions of customers. ·      Number of People Using Services: Digital payment services are widely used, with a significant portion of the population engaging in mobile transactions. Central Africa: Cameroon ·      Volume of Mobile Payment Transactions: Cameroon is experiencing growth in mobile banking, contributing to the overall increase in mobile money transactions in the region. ·      Number of Digital Banks: While specific numbers for digital banks in Cameroon are less prominent, the country is seeing a rise in mobile banking services. ·      Number of People Using Services: The adoption of mobile banking services is growing, although specific user numbers are less detailed compared to other regions. Summary Fintech is indeed revolutionizing financial services across Africa, with each region showing significant advancements in mobile payments and digital banking. Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are leading the charge, while Cameroon is steadily catching up. #Fintech #FinancialInclusion #Africa #DigitalTransformation

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Nigerian fintech innovator Grey (YC W22) has forged a strategic alliance with dLocal, a prominent player in the cross-border payment sector, to facilitate its growth into new and emerging markets. Founded in 2021 by visionaries Idorenyin O. 0bong and Joseph Femi Aghedo, Grey has quickly become a go-to service for international money transfers, offering its users the ability to swiftly send and receive payments across borders without limitations. The company’s offerings include the provision of foreign bank accounts, instant currency exchange services, and seamless international money transfers. Having secured a US$2 million investment in 2022 with the support of Y Combinator, Grey is on an aggressive expansion path, with Kenya serving as its gateway to the East African market. dLocal specializes in enabling local payment transactions in fast-growing economies, bridging the gap between global merchants and consumers across continents including Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The collaboration with dLocal will empower Grey to extend cross-border payment services to wallets and bank accounts in new territories such as Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, the Philippines, and South Africa. Click the link to read more: https://lnkd.in/dnUYEduH   #innovationvillage #grey #dlocal #fintech #partnership #ycombinator #techtrends #technews #innovation #emergingmarkets #africabusiness

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Ed-Tech Mondays: Zeraki was featured on the EdTech Summit Zeraki recently participated in the EdTech Summit at Garissa University, ultimately featuring on EdTech Monday Kenya.  Here is a recap. The EdTech Summit was convened by EdTech East Africa in partnership with the Frontier County Development Council (FCDC) to spark edtech conversations in the frontier region.   Graced by entrepreneurs, students, teachers, education experts, and policymakers, the summit discussed the landscape of edtech in the frontier counties, with panelists highlighting the need to redefine and properly engage all education stakeholders who can bring value to education in the region in conversations about leveraging technology to provide education to all. The summit continued to hail teachers as agents of change in this digital migration citing that, when the teachers are empowered, even the students will be empowered. Among Edtech visionaries who shared their sentiments on creating new ways to learn was Zeraki’s very own Zacch M'copondo (see in video). Innovation is crucial to curbing disruptions that affect quality education delivery. This year’s theme for the summit was Education Technology for Resilient and Inclusive Learning in Africa. Visionaries invited have affirmed the need for innovative and accessible digital content for all learners. EdTech Monday Kenya is brought to you by The MasterCard Foundation for Innovation and Learning in partnership with EdTech East Africa.   

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The Nigeria Startup Act 2022 (the "Act") includes measures designed to encourage the creation of innovative startups within Nigeria. It also offers benefits for key players in the startup ecosystem, This post highlights some of these incentives. #startup #nigeria #startupact #incentives #founders #accelators #incubators #privateequity #venturecapital #venturecapitalists #finance #taxincentives #pearltonassociates #legal #practice

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Unlock the future of education with the Mastercard Foundation's renewed commitment to African EdTech. At a media roundtable on June 21, 2024, Joseph Nsengimana, Director of the Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL), reaffirmed the Foundation’s dedication to nurturing EdTech companies across Africa. Nsengimana highlighted strategic partnerships with tech hubs, aiming to support EdTech ventures beyond initial funding, fostering sustained growth and impact. “Our goal is to create a robust ecosystem where EdTech companies can thrive, reach more learners, and significantly enhance educational outcomes,” he stated. A distinguished panel featuring Nissi Madu, Solomon Twum, and Jumanne Mtambalike showcased successful partnerships like Loho Learning and Angaza Elimu, combining content expertise with personalized learning frameworks. They emphasized the importance of collaboration within the EdTech sector, with telecom partnerships like Kalamu in Kenya making solutions more affordable and accessible. Equipping teachers with AI-powered tools, as seen in collaborations between Edutams, Skula Skula, and Cory AI, was also highlighted as essential for enhancing classroom learning. The Mastercard Foundation announced its upcoming EdTech conference in Abuja, Nigeria, from July 8-10, bringing together entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and educators to co-create the future of EdTech in Africa. The conference, gathering about 600 delegates, will focus on a shared vision for EdTech in Africa, addressing challenges, and leveraging opportunities for a brighter educational future. #EdTech #MastercardFoundation #MetaHub

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African startup investment optimism rises as investors eye a robust tech ecosystem and better investment structures for sustainable growth. Join the conversation on Africa's tech evolution. #AfricanTech #VentureCapital #InnovateAfrica #StartupGrowth

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Paga Group Ltd, one of our remarkable portfolio companies, has once again secured a spot on the Financial Times (FT) annual ranking of Africa’s Fastest Growing Companies for 2024, emerging as number 56 on the list. (Yes, Paga also made the list in 2023!) Founded in 2009, Paga has achieved a remarkable CAGR of 50.09% and witnessed impressive revenue growth from $19.59 million in 2019 to $56.29 million in 2022. Paga has achieved several milestones, expanded their footprint across Africa, and enabled millions of people to access financial services. We are immensely proud to have invested in Paga through our uMunthu fund. As the first institutional investor in Paga, we recognised the company’s potential to drive impact and foster financial inclusion. We look forward to celebrating even greater accomplishments and impact. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eYiNusdT #AlitheiaCapital #Paga #AfricaFastestGrowingCompanies Yewande Adewusi Doubra Eghaghe, CFA Lionel Adabayeri Damilola Fajemisin, CFA Nnamdi Aguh Oti Ilentamhen, CPA Moyosore Babalola Oluwakemi M. Olajide Peter Justin Akpan, CFA, ACA #FinancialInclusion #EmpoweringAfrica #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #ImpactInvesting

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At Bildar, we believe in the power of innovation and the transformative potential of startups. As a growth lab dedicated to empowering Nigeria’s entrepreneurs, our mission is to provide the support and resources that visionary founders need to succeed. Why the Deal Room? The #DealRoom at Tech Summit Ogun '24 is more than just an event—it’s a catalyst for change. By bringing together Ogun State’s brightest innovators with seasoned investors, the Deal Room creates a unique environment where groundbreaking ideas can find the backing they deserve. This aligns perfectly with Bildar’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will drive Nigeria’s economic future. Our collaboration with Tech Summit Ogun is rooted in a shared vision: to create opportunities, foster innovation, and build a thriving ecosystem where startups can flourish. We’re proud to sponsor the Deal Room, a space where ideas meet investment, and where entrepreneurs are equipped to turn their dreams into reality. For more information, go to https://lnkd.in/dVxUPwe9. #DealRoombyBildar #Bildar

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For African startup founders, dealing with currency inflation when converting Simple Agreements for Future Equity (SAFEs) is important. Inflation means prices go up over time, making money worth less and in Africa, inflation rates can be frequently high. When converting SAFEs into ownership, the agreed value might change because of inflation and make the investment worth less. In cases like this, here's what founders can do to deal with the inflation; 1️⃣ Update investors on the company's progress and value regularly. 2️⃣ Negotiate terms that consider inflation, like adjusting the conversion price based on the current value of money. 3️⃣ Spread out the company's assets or income to lessen the impact of inflation. 4️⃣ Talk to financial experts who know about dealing with inflation in African markets. 📌 Structure your SAFEs properly with Raise custom tools and collaborate with shareholders and legal partners on agreements and signatures in one place: https://bit.ly/SAFEstacks #SAFEStacks #SAFEs #AfricanStartups #Equity #AngelInvestors #VentureCapital #Inflation

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🚀 Presenting the Winning Strategy for Africa's Fintech Market! 🌍   PML OCT PM CHALLENGE,winning team has reimagined fintech in Africa, crafting a roadmap to address key challenges and unlock massive opportunities in cross-border payments. 💸📈 From reducing fees and enhancing security to boosting financial inclusion—they've tackled it all! Here's what they uncovered in the journey:   🔹 Growth Potential: With projections of $65 billion by 2030 and $70 billion by 2040, Africa's fintech market is primed for expansion, fueled by mobile penetration and a large unbanked population. 📱💵  🔹 Top Players: Key competitors like FlutterWave, Chipper Cash, and Lemfi show us the strength of the African fintech ecosystem and the fierce competition shaping it.  🔹 Tech Integration & Regulation: From AI to blockchain and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, the landscape is evolving fast! 🚀   Problem Focus: High fees and regulatory complexity in cross-border transactions are big roadblocks, especially for freelancers and remittance senders, who face high conversion rates and long delays. 🕒   🎯 Objective: Create a seamless, low-cost cross-border payment platform with a secure wallet, simplified KYC, and robust customer support to make transactions smoother than ever! 💳✨   Roadmap Snapshot: Our team mapped out a phased development approach with essential features up front, focusing on usability, affordability, and security. 🛠️🔒   Kudos to the amazing team for tackling Africa's fintech challenges head-on and paving the way for a more inclusive financial future! Halima Iyke-Oginah, Blessing Asibi Bako, DANIEL UMAH (MBA) , Joy Ozoya ,Nomajuba Hlatshwayo,AbdulGaniu Shelle , MARIAM ATOYEGBE 👏👏 #PMLChallenge #AfricaFintech #CrossBorderPayments #FintechForGood

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