From November 3rd to 6th, 2024, the Ekiti Innovation Summit 2.0 brought together over 2,000 innovators, creators, industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in a groundbreaking event focused on technology, creativity, and sustainable economic development.
The summit, themed “Maker-Centres: Unleashing Creativity Through Innovation Spaces,” marked a pivotal collaboration between STEP and the Ekiti State Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy (MISDE), empowering startups and entrepreneurs with resources, tools, and networks for sustainable growth.
The event featured a lineup of prominent thought leaders and changemakers, including Hon. Commissioner Seun Fakuade of MISDE Ekiti State, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji of Future Africa, Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji of Rise Networks, Wole Odetayo of Lofty Group, Idowu Akinde of Impact Hub Lagos, Ifedy Ralph Eze, Project Director of STEP and MD, Founder Institute Lagos, and Dr. Williams Tsuma, CIO at UNDP.
Their insights underscored the transformative role of innovation in accelerating development and economic progress in Ekiti State and beyond.
Highlights from the Summit
1. Masterclass by Mr. Ifedy Ralph Eze, STEP Project Director:
Over 1,000 participants attended Mr. Eze’s session on “Navigating the Legal Landscape for Tech Startups.”
The masterclass provided invaluable insights into critical areas like intellectual property protection, contract essentials, and regulatory compliance, equipping startups with the knowledge needed to mitigate risks and scale effectively.
2. Startup Pitch Sessions:
More than 10 tech-enabled startups presented their innovative solutions to an audience of angel investors and funders, opening doors for connections and investment opportunities to drive growth. Ekiti’s vibrant innovation hubs and maker spaces were also showcased, highlighting their role in fostering creativity and local economic development.
3. One-on-One Sessions with Startups:
The STEP team engaged directly with six emerging startups, learning about their solutions, offering tailored guidance, and exploring opportunities to integrate them into the STEP community.
STEP’s Role in Ekiti’s Thriving Tech Ecosystem
Through this strategic partnership, STEP has reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation and supporting tech ecosystems across Nigeria.
The Ekiti Innovation Summit 2.0 has further cemented Ekiti State’s position as a leader in Nigeria’s evolving digital economy, setting a benchmark for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.
More about STEP
The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP) is an initiative of IDEA Africa, supported by UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, designed to bridge the gap between tech-enabled startups and skilled professionals.
By fostering a thriving community of innovators, talents, and mentors, STEP is creating a robust ecosystem that drives economic development and empowers local entrepreneurs.
