Foundry, an initiative of the Nest Innovation Technology Park, supporting businesses – both Startup founders and SMEs, is making waves in Africa through its impact driven programs to empower entrepreneurs across all stages.
Since its establishment in 2021, Foundry has been on a mission to enable the growth of profitable businesses in Africa, contributing to the continent’s economy by providing mentorship, advisory, funding, and training opportunities for business owners and startup founders.
Foundry’s impact is undeniable, having empowered over 500 SMEs and 40 startups, and providing grants to profitable and resourceful SMEs to scale across Nigeria, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Ghana. The initiative plans to extend its reach to 5000 SMEs and 200 startups across the continent within the next three years.
“We are committed to empowering innovative and resourceful entrepreneurs, enhancing the growth and development of their businesses, and positioning them for sustainability and growth,” says Light Ohwoka, the Project Lead at Foundry.
Foundry offers funding opportunities, mentorship, access to industry experts, and a network of entrepreneurs. One of its programs, The Pitch Night, provides an opportunity for investment-ready startups to pitch to investors & access direct funding.
Another, the SME Bootcamp, is a 2-week intensive program designed to connect small & local businesses with the right entrepreneurial knowledge, empowering them with the needed support & infrastructure to scale and position themselves for sustainable growth.
Beneficiaries of the Foundry’s programs attest to the value and impact received so far; according to Mr Daniel (CEO, Mobile Cooks), “Foundry became a foundation for me to grow and explore opportunities within my business. They helped me reset the Big Why of my business and being a part of such a community has immensely helped my business growth. I have also been exposed to proper financial literacy, which will help my business attain proper stability and valuation over time.”
The 6th edition of the Foundry SME Bootcamp is now open to registrations until March 17th. Successful applicants will receive training from business experts, mentorship, funding to expand their businesses, tools to digitize their business processes, and exclusive access to alumni-only events and deals.
Foundry’s outstanding achievements in empowering businesses across Africa for profitability and sustainability unequivocally demonstrate the significance of supporting entrepreneurship and innovation on the continent. The impact of this initiative cannot be overstated, and it is commendable that Foundry is resolutely committed to empowering African entrepreneurs.
How to APPLY:
To apply for the SME Bootcamp 6.0, visit Foundry SME 6