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SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON THE UNSUNG HEROES OF AFRICA'S STARTUP ECOSYSTEMS

BUILDING A GREAT STARTUP ECOSYSTEM
ONE STEP AT A TIME, TOGETHER!

The African continent is on the cusp of a digital revolution, characterized by a thriving entrepreneurial landscape and an abundance of untapped potential. To harness this potential and drive economic growth, it is crucial to foster a dynamic and resilient startup ecosystem that nurtures innovation, collaboration, and accelerated progress. This vision serves as the cornerstone for the Africa Startup Ecosystem Builders Summit and Awards (ASEB), an influential initiative led by Setup A Startup. ASEB aims to champion ecosystem building as a fresh approach to economic development, empowering individuals and communities to attain economic independence through entrepreneurial triumph. Moreover, ASEB endeavors to acknowledge and celebrate the often overlooked heroes who actively contribute to ecosystem building.

ASEB is more than just an annual gathering; it is a dynamic platform that emphasizes workshops, breakout sessions, and collaborative activities. Our focus is on the participants, fostering an environment where they can actively engage in the development of tools, resources, and innovative approaches to better support entrepreneurs and innovators. Through interactive sessions and peer-to-peer learning, ASEB Summit encourages participants to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collaborate on building resilient ecosystems that empower and uplift communities.

At the heart of ASEB is the recognition and celebration of outstanding contributions to ecosystem building through the ASEB Awards. The ASEB Awards are a central component of the Summit, honoring the unsung heroes who have made significant contributions to fostering entrepreneurship and building resilient startup ecosystems in Africa. These awards shine a spotlight on individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact in their ecosystem-building efforts. 

By acknowledging their achievements, the ASEB Awards inspire and encourage others to strive for excellence in ecosystem building, further fueling the growth and success of entrepreneurship in Africa.

Reflection from our Founder & Convener,

ASEB 2024 wasn’t just an event—it was a landmark in our journey towards a united African startup ecosystem. For four electrifying days in Accra, we witnessed the power of collaboration as 600+ ecosystem builders from 35 African nations converged, each carrying the aspirations of countless entrepreneurs.

A true highlight was our groundbreaking partnership with Mayotte In Tech. Welcoming this dynamic delegation from the French territory marked a pivotal moment, opening new avenues for collaboration between African startup ecosystems and Mayotte. This bridge between continents symbolizes the boundless potential of our collective vision.

From fostering cross-border initiatives to celebrating unsung heroes at our Awards Gala, we’ve laid the foundation for Africa’s next great leap in innovation. The connections forged here—from the heart of West Africa to the shores of the Indian Ocean—are the seeds of a future where African ingenuity knows no bounds.

As we set our sights on 2025, remember: every ecosystem you nurture, every startup you empower, and every bridge you build is shaping the prosperous future of our continent and beyond. Together, we’re not just creating ecosystems—we’re crafting a united, innovative Africa that welcomes collaboration from all corners of the globe.

McKevin Ayaba: Founder & Convener, ASEB Summit & Awards

Overview Of 2024 Topics & Sessions

  • The Role of Ecosystem Builders in Shaping a Diverse Startup Landscape

  • Ecosystem Spotlight – Unpacking Ghana’s Startup Ecosystem.
  • The Role of Diversity in Enhancing Ecosystem Resilience
  • Circularity For All: Policy Frameworks for Supporting Circular Economy in Africa

  • Supporting Mental Health in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

  • Government’s Role in Nurturing the Startup Ecosystem: Policies, Funding, and Infrastructure
  • Developing a Code of Ethics for Ecosystem Builders:
  • Harnessing Cultural Diversity for Economic Innovation
  • Story sharing from Ecosystem Builders (5 ecosystem builders)
  • Fostering the Creative Economy through Ecosystem Building
  • The AfCFTA’s Ripple Effect on Startups: Unveiling the Gains and Hurdles
  • Funding and Building Capacity for Ecosystem Builders

  • Harnessing the Power of Data for Startup Innovation
  • Interactive Workshop on Building Your Ecosystem Map: The Importance of Ecosystem Mapping
  • Youth Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Economic Inclusion
  • Fostering Entrepreneurial Growth through Regional and Cross-Border Collaboration
  • AI as a Driver of Innovation in African Startups
  • Commercialization and monetization of intellectual property (IP)
  • The Ecosystem Builder’s Toolkit for Enhancing Investment Readiness
  • Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony (celebrating unsung heroes in ecosystem building)

Why The Summit?

  • To provide open standard framework, innovation entrepreneurship education and training, ecosystem development consulting.
  • Delegations from across the continent will work together to act towards creating a sustainable startup ecosystem.

  • The ASEB Summit is about putting relationships into action.

  • Peer-to-peer learning, short interactive presentations, collaborative activities, and more.

  • Participants will learn from experts’ speakers and communities across Africa and beyond.

  • Participants will connect with those in their towns, cities and regions to better collaborate and strengthen the ecosystem in their communities.

Who Should Attend?

  • Economic, community and workforce development
  • Entrepreneurship and venture development
  • Incubators, accelerators, and coworking spaces
  • Grassroots community organizing
  • Banking, investment and philanthropy
  • Large companies and anchor institutions
  • Universities, community colleges
  • Libraries, nonprofits and community institutions
  • Government and public office, real estate development, research, media and more..

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