Source: CNR Citi Newsroom
The three-month program, which launched in Accra on August 21, 2024, combines in-person and virtual sessions to provide extensive support for twenty-six (26) small and medium enterprise (SME) owners.
During the launch event, Miss Aurelia Abena Attipoe, founder and team lead of The Pitch Hub, highlighted that the bp Innovation Factory aims to unlock substantial growth potential for participating businesses through a comprehensive approach. This includes targeted workshops, one-on-one coaching, funding opportunities, and networking sessions.
“With the bp Innovation Factory, our goal is to showcase the vast opportunities available to entrepreneurs. We have designed a curriculum that will enable the selected entrepreneurs to apply the most effective principles to their businesses,” she emphasized.
Miss Attipoe explained that the program’s strategic blend of soft skills training and access to resources is crafted to tackle the unique challenges faced by young African entrepreneurs in the competitive market today.
She noted that out of 50 entrepreneurs interviewed from 12 regions in Ghana, 26 exceptional individuals were chosen. Miss Attipoe expressed her appreciation to BP for providing the platform that made this initiative possible.
Mr. Kevin Fiifi Dadzie, bp Head of Country, underscored that the bp Innovation Factory aims to address the fundamental factors and gaps hindering business growth and development in Ghana.
“Leveraging The Pitch Hub’s experience as implementing partners, bp intends to deliver comprehensive, hands-on support to the selected participants, equipping them with crucial tools,” he said.
Mr. Dadzie added, “bp believes that this focused and personalized support will unlock the growth potential in these businesses, giving them the essential building blocks for long-term self-sufficiency and sustainable livelihoods.”
He further commented, “We share The Pitch Hub’s commitment to fostering socio-economic development and building sustainable livelihoods, and we are proud to support them as implementation partners for this initiative.”
One of the program’s beneficiaries, Miss Jessica Aputara of Dominion Natural Foods, shared her excitement about participating in the program. She said, “I have always sought an opportunity to learn more about business growth, expansion, and visibility.”
“By the end of the program, I hope to gain the knowledge needed to grow my business to a level where I can hire others and also export. I am also eager to network with key industry figures, which I believe will help reduce unemployment in the country,” she optimistically stated.
The event was attended by Mr. Nashiru Salifu, Deputy Director for the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), CEO of TKC Africa, Hannah Acquah, along with a range of mentors and business leaders.
The Pitch Hub is dedicated to empowering young African entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to develop and sustain competitive businesses. Since its inception in 2019, the organization has supported over 1,000 young entrepreneurs.
bp, a leading integrated energy company, is committed to creating value and fostering sustainable growth by developing innovative solutions that address global energy needs while advancing social and environmental progress.
