Collaborate more to scale-up Ghanaian startups - Ecosystem players urged

Accra witnessed a convergence of innovation, tech-focused and tech-enabled
businesses, together with investors, mentors, and policymakers at the Ghana Startup Ecosystem Mixer held at the Accra Digital Center.

Hosted by the Association of Ghana Startups, with support from Madica VC, Innohub, and Chanzo Capital, the event exceeded expectations, recording very high numbers in attendance and providing a platform for very meaningful and impactful conversations.

The program commenced with an official welcome speech by Solomon Adjei, the
President of the Association of Ghana Startups (AGS) who highlighted the
importance of the mixer as a platform for companies, startups, and entrepreneurs to network, interact, and engage in conversations around partnerships, funding,
mentoring, and market access, among others.

The Programs Director of the Accra Digital Center, Mr. Edward Aikins also
underlined the value of networking and encouraged attendees to form positive ties with other entrepreneurs, while highlighting the roles the Digital Center plays to support startups.

He emphasized that the center provides real estate for entrepreneurs
and encouraged startups to take advantage of the opportunities available to them at the centre.

The evening unfolded with different startups making brief pitches of their businesses, followed by the presentation of citations to the 2023 Ghana Startup Week partners including the National Youth Authority, National Entrepreneurship and Innovations Program, International Trade Center, Ghana Digital Centers Ltd, Venture Capital Trust Fund, and MEST Africa.

On a brief panel to discuss ‘Scaling up Ghana’s Startup Ecosystem; Collaborate,
Innovate and Invest Together’, Josiah Eyison of Ghana Hubs Network, Marie Reine
Seshie of Kola Market, Mike Darko of Chanzo Capital, King David Amo of Innohub,
and Emmanuel Adegboye of Madica VC shared insights on the need to collaborate as
ecosystem players and the opportunities that bring.

The Head of Portfolio Management at Madica VC, Brenda Wangari expressed her
utmost satisfaction with being a part of the Mixer, saying; “we are proud to have played a role in bringing together Ghana's startup ecosystem. The Mixer was a testament to the immense potential and innovation within the community, and we look forward to continuing our support. I am thrilled with the overwhelming response to the Ghana Startup Ecosystem Mixer"

"The energy at the event was palpable, reflecting the passion and dedication of our startup community. This event marks the beginning of a year filled with exciting initiatives and collaborative opportunities", Solomon Adjei said.

As the Ghanaian Startup Ecosystem looks ahead to 2024, the mixer set a strong
foundation for growth, collaboration, and the collective success of startups across the nation.