GrowthAfrica

WASTE NOT, NOURISH SOIL  “In the journey to do good, make sure you’re not doing harm.” This powerful insight comes from Derrick Ngigi, HSC, founder of Pure Plant Organics. Pure Plant Organics are tackling a pressing issue: Nairobi's organic waste. By transforming agricultural waste into organic fertilisers, they not only reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions like methane and carbon dioxide but also give farmers a powerful tool to improve soil health and cut down on production costs. Through the support of the Circular Economy ClimAccelerator, Derrick has gained crucial insights into the metrics that matter most. It’s no longer just about how much waste he converts, it’s about understanding the entire journey of impact. With the help of industry experts, Derrick has refined his approach to ensure that his efforts to reduce waste are as sustainable as possible. 3 key insights he shares; ✔Measure the true impact: Beyond just the products, understanding the journey of impact helps identify opportunities for improvement in both positive outcomes and reducing potential negative effects. ✔Sustainability is in the details: Little changes like managing electricity and water usage can make a big difference, ensuring that efforts to do good don’t inadvertently harm the environment. ✔Record-keeping is key: From tracking stock levels to scheduling customer follow-ups, meticulous record-keeping enables Pure Plant Organics to stay efficient and responsive to customer needs. This is just the beginning for Derrick and Pure Plant Organics, as they continue to refine their processes and expand their impact in Nairobi’s circular economy. Watch the full interview to learn how they’re paving the way for a more sustainable future! #GrowthAfrica #PurePlantOrganics #CircularEconomy #SustainableFuture #OrganicWasteSolutions #SoilHealthMatters #EcoImpact #GreenGrowth #SustainableNairobi Greenthing Kenya Nyandia Kamawe Miraj Shah Gloria Kisilu Green Miles Zero Waste Services Mary Ngechu Dennis Muriithi Charles Kanyoi Vincent Karanja David Ngechu Patricia Jumi Duncan Amuko M.B.A. Maureen Wachira Obama Joseph Emily Amann Henriëtte de Wit Parisa Khoram, PhD Silvia Doglioni Carla Erber Carla Alvial Palavicino Eva Ros Chris Roe Jackson Kinyanjui Climate-KIC IKEA Foundation Victor Mwendwa

TEAM ENTREPRENEURSHIP The Investing in Young Businesses in Africa (IYBA) meeting, hosted at the European Investment Bank (EIB) in Luxembourg, spotlighted the vital role of EU-Africa collaboration in nurturing early-stage African entrepreneurs. Bringing together over 50 representatives from organisations supporting African entrepreneurship, the event showcased innovative approaches to addressing challenges across the entrepreneurial landscape. This gathering was a testament to the significant impact that coordinated EU-Africa efforts can make in building a supportive ecosystem for African businesses. Led by EIB, the agenda featured sessions on essential themes: funding models, enterprise growth, gender-focused financing, and ecosystem-building strategies. Key IYBA programmes were presented by experts including Cvijeta Jekić of Expertise France, Amani Pakmohr from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, and Susie Shuford-Lazarz of FMO - Dutch entrepreneurial development bank, each contributing to efforts aimed at strengthening business resilience and sustainability in Africa. Further discussions highlighted partnership opportunities and philanthropic initiatives, featuring input from DG INTPA, SAGANA, Agence Française de Développement, and European Investment Bank (EIB). Contributions from Boost Africa, Westerwelle Foundation, European Business Network (EBN), and Triple Jump explored the critical role of Enterprise Support Organisations (ESOs). In the gender-focused segment, Laetitia Hamon of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and Rolake Rosiji from Safeem/Seedstars discussed gender-lens investment tools, while EIB’s Nur Ozdemir and representatives from Investisseurs & Partenaires - I&P and Goodwell Investments shared insights on debt and equity financing models. GrowthAfrica by Ian Lorenzen led a session, Comparison of the East African ESO Ecosystems - Challenges and Opportunities, addressing priority needs in the African ESO sector. Key areas of focus included establishing co-created standards for quality and accountability across ESOs, exploring diversified revenue models for financial sustainability, and recognising the supportive role of ESO associations in resource mobilisation and advocacy without competing with ESOs themselves. The meeting underscored the potential of a collaborative, cross-border approach to drive inclusive, sustainable growth for African entrepreneurs. With a unified vision for standards, financial resilience, and collaborative infrastructure, the EU and African stakeholders are laying the foundation for a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. This collective commitment to innovation and support creates an environment where Africa’s entrepreneurs can thrive, paving the way for a resilient future. #GrowthAfrica #IYBA #Entrepreneurship #EcosystemBuilding #YouthEmpowerment #SustainableFinance #EastAfrica #TeamEurope #Collaboration

UNLEASH OUR BIO-ECONOMY  The potential of the African bio-economy is huge. We need to build the roadmap for growth and innovation and take action to seize the opportunities. At last week’s Global BioEconomy Summit 2024 (www.gbs2024.org), leaders and practitioners gathered in Nairobi to explore the future of Africa’s bio-economy - an industry rich with potential to drive sustainable growth across the continent. In the session "Making it real: Fostering AU-EU bio-economy collaboration," industry experts dove into the practical strategies needed to strengthen Africa’s role in the global bio-economy. The session was convened by BioInnovate Africa at ICIPE - International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (Julius Ecuru), BioInnovation Institute (Andrew Julius Bende) and GrowthAfrica (Ian Lorenzen). Following insights from Arnoud Klokke (BioInnovation Institute), Jarne Elleholm (EvodiaBio) and yeneneh Tesfaye Alemu, (Dr.) (Kaffabio Control Agro Industry Ltd) an expert panel moderated by Ian Lorenzen of GrowthAfrica, brought together voices from different facets of the ecosystem, including Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa, PhD (Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), Enos Masinde Weswa from the UK-Kenya Tech Hub, Khatuchi Khasandi, Arnoud Klokke, and Stephen Gugu (ViKtoria Ventures). Together, they unpacked both the challenges and the transformative opportunities that lie ahead. Key takeaways: ✔Beyond short-term funding:  While short-cycle grants initiate progress, the bio-economy needs long-term financing models to help bio-entrepreneurs scale impactful solutions. ✔Cross-sector collaboration:  Innovation accelerates when academia, government, and private sector players collaborate. Building robust partnerships provides bio-entrepreneurs with the networks and resources to succeed. ✔Regulatory support for innovation:  Simplified, supportive policies can empower more bio-based businesses. Aligning regulations with industry needs will streamline growth and bring more innovations to market. ✔Local production for self-sufficiency:  Strengthening local manufacturing capacities across bio-economy sectors—from agriculture to pharmaceuticals, can reduce import reliance and boost local economies. ✔Data-driven decision-making:  Reliable data platforms enable bio-entrepreneurs to measure impact and make sustainable decisions that benefit both people and the planet. The session made one thing clear:  The potential for Africa’s bio-economy is vast. With long-term strategies, collaborative partnerships, and sustainable practices, Africa can build a bio-economy that is both resilient and globally competitive. #GrowthAfrica #BioEconomy #InnovationAfrica #SustainableGrowth #BioInnovation #Entrepreneurship #GlobalBioSummit #EcosystemBuilding #ImpactAfrica Thomas de Bang, Mikkel Bülow Skovborg, Louise Hindenburg, Afton Halloran, PhD, Drishya Nair, Steffen Aggerholm Krog (Novo Nordisk Foundation), Jens Nielsen (BioInnovation Institute), Karina Faßbender

LIKE, SHARE, CONVERT In today’s digital landscape, your online presence can make or break your business. Ezana Raswork, CEO and Founder of Africa 118 Inc., breaks down the essential strategies for SMEs to boost their visibility, attract clients, and drive real results. It all starts with a strong website and an active social media presence, but that’s just the beginning. Discover how to convert likes and shares into real business growth by leveraging targeted campaigns and digital tools that bring clients straight to your doorstep. Africa 118 is on a mission to bridge the digital divide in Africa, empowering small and medium businesses to thrive in the online ecosystem. Ready to step up your digital game? View Ezana's tips for entrepreneurs and learn how to turn clicks into clients! #GrowthAfrica #DigitalMarketing #SMEs #Africa118 #OnlineGrowth #MarketingTips #BusinessVisibility #Entrepreneurship Catherine Maingi, CPA (K) Fredrick Imbo Mwaura Wambiru Pitkins Amos

HUB HOPPING: INNOVATION MEETS COLLABORATION! At the 2024 Africa Startup Ecosystem Builders Summit & Awards(ASEB) , innovators, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem builders from across the continent united to shape a more inclusive and resilient startup landscape. With the theme "Inclusive Entrepreneurship: Designing Africa’s Start-up Ecosystem on Diversity and Collaboration," the event centered on fostering collaboration to drive sustainable growth. GrowthAfrica hosted an engaging workshop on mapping West and East African ecosystems, where we identified opportunities to address gaps and strengthen local entrepreneurial environments. This interactive session sparked valuable insights into how collaboration can elevate businesses and drive innovation across Africa. An exciting ecosystem tour took participants to innovation hubs like ALX GHANA, GrowthAfrica, and iSpace Foundation, offering a firsthand look at how these spaces empower entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and networks. The tour concluded with a dynamic panel discussion on the Ghanaian entrepreneurial ecosystem and the vital role of collaboration in fostering thriving start-ups. The ASEB Summit was a powerful reminder that, through collective effort, we can build a future where Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystems are diverse, collaborative, and poised for impact. Let’s keep driving change, one ecosystem at a time! #GrowthAfrica #AfricaStartups #EcosystemBuilding #Entrepreneurship #Collaboration #Innovation #SustainableGrowth #ASEB2024 #Ghana Ghana Digital & Innovation Week NEIP Innovation Impact Hub Accra Ennovate Ventures BLCK® Fidelity Bank Ghana Brand South Africa UVU Africa Ghana Chamber of Young Entrepreneurs GrowthWheel South Africa Synertium - Sustainable Impact Projects and Transitions ASENTI AFRICA Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (GI-KACE) Gerald Black Ennovate Blck McKevin Ayaba Eugene ELUERKEH Jesse Baddoo Angel-Seraphine Oforiwah Mbroh MEST Africa Foundervine

SCALING JOURNEYS: LESSONS FROM THE FIELD Scaling a business is both a challenging and rewarding journey. As organisations grow, they face unique hurdles that require tailored strategies and insights. This is especially true for ventures in emerging markets, where understanding local dynamics is key to success. If you're a high-growth entrepreneur or ecosystem enabler, join our session, 'Scaling Journeys: Lessons from the Field', designed to support ventures like yours in navigating the complexities of scaling. 🗓 Date: Friday, November 1st, 2024 ⏰ Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM EAT 🌐 Location: Online This session is an incredible opportunity to gain insights from experts like Kaleab M.Tesema (HaHuJobs), Menno Van Dijk (ScaleUpNation), Wasihun Mohammed (Addis Ababa University), Nisrina Nabilah (ScaleUpNation), and Nick Graham (Systemic Innovation). This Scaling Journey presents a valuable opportunity to: ✔Learn proven strategies for scaling impact-driven solutions from leading experts ✔Discuss factors specific to scaling ventures in the region 🔗 Register here: https://lnkd.in/eusDEeSS This Scaling Journey is brought to you by the FCDO-funded Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (The RISA Fund), in collaboration with GrowthAfrica and Systemic Innovation. We look forward to your participation! #GrowthAfrica #ScalingJourneys #HighGrowthVentures #Entrepreneurship #EcosystemEnablers #BusinessGrowth #ImpactVentures #EthiopiaStartups #ScalingStrategies #Innovation #HaHuJobs #Ethiopia Addis Alemayehou Nasreen M. Adem Habtamu Gemeda Wagno Selamyhun Adefris Haile Henok Mesfin Henok Laike Ermias Teshome Michael Tomas Gebremariam Ethiopian Association of Startup Ecosystem (EASE) Ministry of Innovation And Technology- Ethiopia Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) - Ethiopia Ministry of Labor and Skill- FDRE African Scalecraft UNDP Ethiopia Nina Kotterik Michael Addisu Michael sahlu Amanuel Lemma Dessalegn Bereket Mamo Buli Renew Capital Ian Lorenzen Obama Joseph Scott Walker MinabTech Oliver Petzoldt Dawit Ayele Haylemariam Boru Shana

FULL CIRCLE, WASTE TO WOW! The energy was electric! Workshop 5 of the Circular Economy ClimAccelerator was buzzing, leaving hearts full and minds brimming with new ideas! The workshop kicked off with key stakeholders i.e. Enock Wangila from Koisinvest, Peter O. Oloo from Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), Sonia Basant from Kilimani Project Foundation, Jabez Mutune from Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC), Karina Faßbender from Circle Innovation, Alvin Omondi from LEWMO, Zablon Wanyama Wekesa from African Circular Economy Network (ACEN) and Immaculate Gwaro from Nairobi City County, engaging with the cohort, sharing deep insights into the circular economy's ever-evolving landscape. From social inclusion to impact measurement and systems thinking, workshop 5 covered it all. Each topic added another layer of knowledge, empowering the entrepreneurs to think holistically about their ventures' impact. Throughout the workshops, from ideation to implementation, the ClimAccelerator has brought together 10 visionary entrepreneurs who are not just tackling waste, they’re turning it into value. From upcycling glass into home décor to transforming organic waste into new resources, these changemakers are redefining Nairobi's sustainability narrative. They’ve pushed boundaries, embraced collaboration, and redefined the city’s sustainability story. We’re excited to see how they continue to scale their solutions and shape the future of Nairobi's circular economy! Want to meet the changemakers? Don’t miss the upcoming Stakeholder Forum on 15th November 2024, a chance to interact with the brilliant minds behind these innovations. Stay tuned for more details! The ClimAccelerator is a global programme for start-ups to innovate, catalyse and scale the potential of their climate solutions. The programme is funded by IKEA Foundation, supported by Climate-KIC and implemented by GrowthAfrica. #GrowthAfrica #CircularEconomy #Recycling #Reuse #Repurpose #Sustainability #Entrepreneurship #AfricanInnovation #WasteManagement #EcoFriendly #ImpactDriven Greenthing Kenya Nyandia Kamawe Miraj Shah Gloria Kisilu Green Miles Zero Waste Services Mary Ngechu Dennis Muriithi Charles Kanyoi Vincent Karanja David Ngechu Patricia Jumi Duncan Asila M.B.A., Maureen Wachira Obama Joseph Emily Amann Henriëtte de Wit Parisa Khoram, PhD Silvia Doglioni Carla Erber Carla Alvial Palavicino Eva Ros Chris Roe Jackson Kinyanjui

MEET THE INNOVATE AGAINST GBV COHORT! We are thrilled to announce the Innovate Against GBV cohort, powered by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with National Gender Equality Commission and Nairobi County Government and implemented by GrowthAfrica. These 11 visionary entrepreneurs are tackling the issue of gender-based violence (GBV) head-on by using entrepreneurship as a tool for social impact.   These innovators will embark on a mentorship journey to transform their ideas into scalable solutions. From tech-driven protection tools to job creation opportunities, their work will aim to reduce GBV and create safer, more equitable communities for all. Meet the entrepreneurs and their impactful ventures: ✔Angela W.., Founding Partner of Heels4Pads (SisterSpeaks Global & Heels4Pads Foundation): Provides capacity building to female GBV survivors with digital and entrepreneurship skills by training them on how to trade donated heels for pads. ✔Steven Ndungu, Co-Founder of Mars Agrofarm & Supplies Ltd: Innovating mama mboga SMART kiosks for women, offering safe, private workspaces that combat exposure to GBV in informal sectors. ✔Ayub Robert, Founder of AMICUS: A digital platform supporting GBV survivors with legal resources, crisis aid, and community tools for awareness and healing. ✔Jacinta Kazenzi, Co-Founder of She’s Safe: Uses USSD technology to secure public spaces for women and minorities. ✔Dennis Onkangi, Founder of Kuza Freezer | Beyond Refrigeration.: Innovates cold storage solutions to empower women entrepreneurs. ✔Yvonne Mose, CEO and Founder of MOMA Renewable Energy: Actively employs GBV survivors and fosters a safe, inclusive and supportive work environment. ✔Vince Sila, Founder of Data Lock Ltd: Promotes women’s entrepreneurship with electric scooters, driving financial freedom. ✔JOHN KIOKO, CEO of Residence Technologies: Revolutionises African settlements with smart addresses, speeding up emergency response times. ✔Emmy Moorhouse (she/her), Founder of SafeWork App: Empowers employees to report workplace harassment with discreet, secure tools. ✔Stephen Dimba, Co-Founder of Klinik: Connects GBV survivors with healthcare via a WhatsApp chatbot for doctors, therapy, and more. ✔Consolata Waithaka, Founder of Woman's Hope: Created ConnectHER, a platform linking domestic workers with clients, while empowering GBV survivors through training. These entrepreneurs are harnessing the power of innovation to address one of the most pressing social issues of our time. With mentorship, resources, and guidance, they are poised to create solutions that will have a lasting impact. Stay tuned for updates on their progress and the life-changing solutions they will develop. Together, we can create a safer, more inclusive world. #GrowthAfrica #InnovateAgainstGBV #Entrepreneurship #JICA #EndGBV Linda Mathenge Patricia Jumi Maureen Wachira Misako Uehara Nami Sakai (Nakatani) Belgrade Okwiry

DATA-DRIVEN JOBS, POWERED BY INNOVATION How can technology reshape job matching and drive growth in African labour markets? Meet Kaleab M.Tesema, Co-Founder and CEO of HaHuJobs, a cutting-edge platform transforming job matching in Ethiopia. HaHuJobs leverages digital innovation and data-driven insights to connect blue and white-collar job seekers with enterprises of all sizes. Through adaptability, automation, and lean operations, Kaleab and his team are providing efficient employment solutions while scaling their platform to meet Ethiopia’s dynamic labour market needs. In a recent interview, Kaleab shared his experience with ScaleUpNation, a diagnostic tool that provides ventures with the insights of what to do differently in order to scale, and not end up stalling. The scan provided crucial insights that helped HahuJobs refine its operations, enhance its marketing strategy, and amplify its competitive edge, paving the way for future growth. Some insights from his experience: ✔Tailoring operations to audience preferences and automating services can lead to steady and sustainable growth. ✔Lean business models and efficient operations enable scaling while maintaining service quality and cost-effectiveness. ✔Refining how a business communicates its unique value proposition is essential for reaching new customers and securing market leadership. It is a delight to witness entrepreneurs like Gala, who are creating innovative solutions to solve pressing employment challenges in Africa’s job markets. Watch the full interview to learn more about how HahuJobs is scaling success in Ethiopia. This case study is made possible by the support of the FCDO-funded Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (The RISA Fund), in collaboration with GrowthAfrica and Systemic Innovation. Full case study: https://lnkd.in/dsUAYEj5 Website: hahujobs.io #Innovation #JobMatching #Entrepreneurship #ScalingSuccess #AfricanStartups #TechForGood #GrowthAfrica #SystemicInnovation #EthiopianEntrepreneurs #Impact #ScaleUpScan Jobtech Alliance, Mercy Corps, Mastercard Foundation, Wasihun Mohammed, Boru Shana, Biruk Yosef Zenebe, Masaaki Hamada, Sakiko Kurosaka, Nebiyou Yirga Wolde, Boru Shana, Selamyhun Adefris Haile, Scott Walker, Ian Lorenzen, Ermias Teshome, Michael Lilier, Birhanu Adere

FROM FARM TO FASHION: SUSTAINABLY “What if your fashion choices could support rural farmers and protect the planet?” Gloria Kisilu, the visionary founder of The Shaba , is redefining fashion by combining sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment. Working closely with rural smallholder farmers, The Shaba produces sisal-based products that are 100% organic, free of chemicals, and handcrafted by local artisans. In a recent interview, Gloria shared her experiences with the Circular Economy ClimAccelerator, highlighting the programme's invaluable support in refining her business model and connecting her with a diverse group of mentors and entrepreneurs. Here are some nuggets of wisdom from Gloria and her business: ✔Embrace circularity for long-term impact: Circular business models reduce waste and extend product lifecycles, adding value for both society and the environment. ✔Collaboration is key: Peer learning and mentorship can provide the fresh perspectives and solutions needed to scale a business. ✔Ethical practices build brand trust: Consumers are drawn to brands that prioritise transparency, responsibility, and a positive impact on both people and the planet. It is exciting to witness and support entrepreneurs like Gloria Kisilu in scaling their ventures and making a positive impact in Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Gloria is one of the 10 entrepreneurs in the Circular Economy ClimAccelerator in Nairobi. The ClimAccelerator is a global programme for start-ups to innovate, catalyse and scale the potential of their climate solutions. The programme is funded by IKEA Foundation, supported by Climate-KIC and implemented by GrowthAfrica. Watch the full interview to learn more about Gloria’s journey and how she is making waves in the sustainable fashion industry. #GrowthAfrica #Sustainability #CircularFashion #Entrepreneurship #Impact #TheShaba Greenthing Kenya Nyandia Kamawe Miraj Shah Gloria Kisilu Green Miles Zero Waste Services Mary Ngechu Dennis Muriithi Charles Kanyoi Vincent Karanja David Ngechu Patricia Jumi Duncan Asila M.B.A., Maureen Wachira Obama Joseph Emily Amann Henriëtte de Wit Parisa Khoram, PhD Silvia Doglioni Carla Erber Carla Alvial Palavicino Eva Ros Chris Roe Jackson Kinyanjui