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.

This collaboration aimed to strengthen the South-South and South-East regions by connecting startups with essential resources, including growth strategies, funding opportunities, and mentorship.

The event reached over 2,500 people, bringing together more than 70 speakers who took the main stage virtually and physically, participated in panel discussions, and led side sessions.

Over 15 workshops provided valuable insights and actionable strategies for entrepreneurs. Notable participants included Jane Egerton-Idehen, MD of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited; Arthur Uche, CEO of Beyond Clothing; Abayomi Adebanjo, Regional Head at Main One; Ugochukwu Aronu, founder of Xend Finance; Yen Choi, CFO of Chiplab, Chisom Egwuatu, Project Lead of STEP and Adeshina Adewumi, founder of Trade Lenda, among others.

Oyinkan Akintola-Bello, the country director of the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, attended virtually and took the main stage to share valuable insights into Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

In her speech to an audience of over 1,000, she encouraged attendees to leverage the knowledge and expertise available at the event, emphasizing the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub’s commitment to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem through the Startup and Talent Enhancement Program – STEP.

Oyinkan highlighted key aspects of their digital strategy, which focuses on collaboration with government and private sectors to improve infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, reduce barriers to digital innovation, develop a skilled digital workforce, and strengthen policy and regulatory frameworks.

The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP), a partnership between the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub and IDEA Africa, is a key initiative aimed at bridging the gap between startups seeking talent and skilled professionals looking for opportunities.

The event featured a fireside chat on “Build for Growth: Growth Hacking Strategies for Startups,” anchored by Chisom Egwuatu, the Project Lead for STEP, and Adeshina Adewumi, CEO of Trade Lenda. This session provided invaluable strategies for startups aiming to leverage growth hacking techniques to achieve scalability.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled “Mapping Growth: Insights and Strategies for Building a Thriving Innovation Ecosystem.”

Chisom Egwuatu discussed the roles of government, startups, Investors, established organizations, talent, mentors, research institutions and innovation hubs, in building a robust innovation ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa.

Beyond knowledge sharing, the event fostered robust networking opportunities, enabling startups to connect with investors, industry professionals, and fellow entrepreneurs.

These interactions are expected to lead to fruitful partnerships, mentorship arrangements, and potential funding opportunities, helping startups in the region overcome key challenges and unlock new growth pathways.

Yet, for many startups and talented individuals, the journey from concept to market traction and revenue is often fraught with challenges.

Enter the Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP), a pioneering initiative by IDEA Africa, with support from the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub.

STEP is not just a program; it’s a transformative force empowering startups and talent across Africa to scale up and achieve sustainable growth.

The vision of STEP is simple yet profound: to bridge the gap between potential and success for startups that have moved beyond the post-revenue stage but are struggling with technical debt, growth hacking, marketing, and other critical areas.

How?

By giving them access to a large pool of professionally trained talent, strategic market advice from industry experts with years of experience, and a community with like-minded people and fellow founders. By providing targeted intervention and strategic resources, STEP ensures that these startups are not just surviving but thriving.

STEP’s approach is holistic, providing support in multiple areas crucial for startup success. From offering technical assistance, helping startups overcome technical debt and improve their product offerings to providing growth hacking strategies and tools to drive rapid growth and scale operations, to offering marketing insights and resources to effectively market products and reach the right audience and also assisting startups in developing robust business strategies that ensure long-term success.

STEP is committed to empowering individual talent and helping mentors attain fulfilment. By connecting skilled professionals and experienced mentors with high-potential startups, STEP not only helps these individuals find meaningful work and fulfilment but also fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. This creates a dynamic ecosystem where both startups, talent and mentors can thrive.

To maintain the quality and impact of the program, STEP employs a rigorous selection process. Startups are evaluated based on their growth potential, market fit, and alignment with STEP’s objectives.

This ensures that only the most promising startups, ready to embrace transformative changes, are chosen. The result is a cohort of high-potential startups primed for success.

Why STEP?

We are not just another initiative, but an organisation committed to transforming lives and businesses. We believe in the power of local startups to drive economic growth and create jobs. With tailored support and resources, we help you overcome challenges and reach new heights. Also, we provide comprehensive talent and mentor support, connecting you with skilled professionals who can help take your business to the next level. At STEP, we are dedicated to the professional growth of individuals. Through our program, selected talent will receive upskilling opportunities and access to job placements that match their skills, ensuring a bright future for all.

Application Details:

Key Dates:

• Application Period: July 22nd – August 31st, 2024

How to Apply for Startups, Talent and Mentors:

1. Click www.steptech.ng
2. Select your track
3. Create an account with us
4. Verify your email
5. Log in to start your application

How to Apply for Hubs:

• Send a mail to Enquiry@steptech.ng with “Hub Application” as the subject

Join STEP in Transforming the Startup Ecosystem

We invite all innovators, from startups to mentors, talent, and hubs, to join us in this exciting journey. STEP is your opportunity to make a significant impact, drive innovation, and contribute to the growth of the startup ecosystem in Enugu, Rivers, and Ekiti states.

“Scaleup with STEP” is not just a call to action; it is a testament to the potential and resilience of African startups and talent. By providing targeted support, fostering connections, and driving innovation, STEP is paving the way for a brighter future in Africa’s tech landscape. Join STEP today and be a part of this incredible transformation.

Join the Community

Stay connected with the team on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for updates, success stories, and live Q&A sessions. One of the most vital parts of STEP is the community that they are creating.

By joining STEP, you join a community of like-minded innovators, tech enthusiasts, and industry experts. This community is a place to collaborate, share experiences, and form long-term connections that can help your startup grow.

Follow STEP’s innovative and exciting journey on social media platforms @steptechnigeria on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

For more information, visit the website or contact the team at Enquiry@steptech.ng.

About IDEA Africa:

IDEA Africa is a leading organization dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across Africa.

Through various initiatives and partnerships, IDEA Africa supports the growth of startups and the professional development of talent, driving economic growth and technological advancement in the region.