The Sola and Ibukun Adeyinka (SIA) Foundation, a Lagos-based non-profit dedicated to advancing social and economic inclusion in Africa, recently concluded its inaugural SIA Startup Foundry Program in collaboration with The Nest Innovation Technology Park.
In line with SIA’s mission to nurture African entrepreneurship, the program provided essential resources for growth to 40 businesses. Participants engaged in a rigorous 4-week boot camp covering critical business topics and received mentorship from experts in business development, financial management, and crafting winning pitches. Following a thorough selection process, five outstanding businesses – OJ Technologies (winner), Greenera Technologies (1st runner-up), Verd Foods (2nd runner-up), Natal Cares (2nd runner-up), and Dash Studios (2nd runner-up) – were granted a total of $10,000 to fuel their ventures.
The SIA Startup Foundry Program offers more than just typical business development training. Participants praised the program for empowering them to achieve tangible results such as increased sales, strategic partnerships, and enhanced team productivity. It equips them with the necessary knowledge and connections to navigate the startup landscape confidently.
Mr. Sola Adeyinka, Co-Chair of SIA Foundation, expressed pride in the passionate innovators who participated in the program, emphasizing its alignment with the foundation’s dedication to Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit and fostering a thriving business ecosystem.
The partnership with The Nest Innovation Technology Park played a crucial role in providing structure and guidance to participating businesses. Oluwajoba Oloba, Co-Founder of The Nest, highlighted the program’s potential for profound and lasting impact, underscoring the shared vision of nurturing innovative and scalable businesses for economic growth and a vibrant Africa.
Beneficiary Gift Muoneke commended the SIA Startup Foundry and recommended it to other startups aiming for scalability. Grace Darko of Verd Foods emphasized the program’s value in creating structures and strategies to optimize business performance. Uche Udekwe, Founder of Natal Cares, highlighted the importance of resilience in the startup world and praised the sense of community fostered within the program.
SIA Foundation remains committed to making the SIA Startup Foundry Program an annual initiative, furthering its mission to empower entrepreneurs and unlock their full potential.
