STEP, StartupSouth9 to Power Up South-South/South-East Startup Ecosystem

STEP, a leading initiative dedicated to empowering startups across Nigeria, partnered with StartupSouth9 to host the STEP x StartupSouth9 Event on October 3rd to 4th, 2024, in Port Harcourt.

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.

The Country Director of the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, Oyinkan Akintola-Bello, 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.