Kurious K
By kolapo ogungbile
Do you really know what it takes to build startups in Africa? We will strip it bare here!
Kurious KNov 01, 2023
00:00
42:20
Nwanne Nwonwu- Adopting Internship & appreenticeship model to solving unemployment
In this episode, we explore the urgent need for overhauling the education curriculum, emphasizing the significance of adopting internship and apprenticeship models. Join us as we unravel the potential these approaches hold in shaping the future of Nigerian education and reducing unemployment.
Nov 01, 202342:20
Tobi Kasali- Building a global community for 2.3 billion Christians
In an era where technology is rapidly transforming various sectors, the question arises: Are religious institutions keeping pace with innovation? Tobi Kasali is at the forefront of building a global community for churches & Christian’s, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in modernizing religious practices worldwide.
Oct 24, 202343:48
Rahman Bamgbala- Lessons building and failing
''If you don't fail, you won't understand'' is one of Rahman's most striking words in this podcast, Although he said those words a couple of times after the recording of the podcast during the off-the-record conversion I typically have with guests after the main recording. I think it's arguably one of the most important insights shared. This episode explores Rahman starting up, raising funds and going big to losing it all, then back to start all over again with Dosh services & Tech.
Oct 16, 202343:40
Generative AI for Startups : Muyiwa Oluwadiya
When it comes to using generative Artificial Intelligence platforms, do you understand how to effectively use prompt engineering? How can startups and individuals take advantage of this technology? Let explore this and more in this episode.
Oct 02, 202328:34
Gerald Black: Navigating Entrepreneurship and Fintech
In Gerald's entrepreneurial journey, he encountered both failures and a successful exit from one of his two startups.
We explored Gerald’s journey from startup founder to Head of Go to Market at Anchor, and his role as a Community Manager at Black Ops.
Discover insights into fintech trends, and community-building strategies, plus some unexpected stories along the way.
Check out Backend by Gerald Black here: www.youtube.com/channel/UCV5Z_Q1cd77k2hygDiysj5A
We explored Gerald’s journey from startup founder to Head of Go to Market at Anchor, and his role as a Community Manager at Black Ops.
Discover insights into fintech trends, and community-building strategies, plus some unexpected stories along the way.
Check out Backend by Gerald Black here: www.youtube.com/channel/UCV5Z_Q1cd77k2hygDiysj5A
Sep 17, 202332:25
How Blockchain is solving Real life African Problem by Adeshina Ajayi
We featured Adeshina Ajayi in the second part of the series of the book review he coauthored with Hakeem Disu. In this concluding part, we took a deep dive into the remaining chapters of the book and some of its significant concepts. Join us for an exciting deep dive!
Link to get a copy:
www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6TMWCSN
Link to get a copy:
www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6TMWCSN
Sep 10, 202333:44
How Blockchain is solving Real life African Problem by Hakeem Disu
Hakeem Disu is back on the podcast for the second time! But this round is different – we're talking about his new book, which he wrote with Adeshina Ajayi. Plus, this is just the start! We're kicking off a 2 part episodes where we'll explore the important ideas from the book. Get ready to dive in with us!
Link to get a copy:
www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6TMWCSN
Link to get a copy:
www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6TMWCSN
Aug 31, 202326:16
Sam Baddoo: Building for simplicity- Exceptional care for loved ones back home
As Africans in the diaspora struggle to ensure trusted healthcare providers for their loved ones back home, Fleri's family care platform is creating a membership-based fintech platform that solves this problem.
Tune in to learn about Fleri's profound societal implications and its potential to shape a brighter future for Africa and beyond. Welcome to Kurious K!
Tune in to learn about Fleri's profound societal implications and its potential to shape a brighter future for Africa and beyond. Welcome to Kurious K!
Jul 30, 202337:52
Fiona Melzer : AI Ethics: ensuring Responsible Development and Deployment of AI.
In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) reigns, the line between innovation and ethics has become increasingly blurred. Join us for a thought-provoking episode as we delve into the captivating realm of AI Ethics and its crucial role in responsible development.
Links to check out
Radical AI podcast www.radicalai.org/
All Tech is Human community alltechishuman.org/
May 28, 202338:22
Ireayo Oladunoye: Supporting the growth of Africa's most exiting startup ecosystem
This episode promises to be very exciting as I am featuring Ireayo Oladunjoye- Head, Startups (Lagos Innovates)
Ireayo is currently responsible for developing and implementing Government-led programs to support an enabling environment for Tech Startups and Innovation Driven Enterprises to thrive in Lagos State at the Lagos state employment trust fund.
In this episode, we discussed
Why Lagos innovates was established and some of its programs.
Impact since launch.
What existing partnerships do they have with the private sector?
The Accelerator and Idea hub Incubation program.
How they ensure funding for startups in their program.
Opportunities for startups and people looking to acquire digital skills and plans for 2023 & more.
May 02, 202323:06
Vili Hätönen: Effective Strategies for Identifying problems that can be addressed with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Unleashing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) requires identifying the right problems to solve. But how can you spot the opportunities that are best suited for AI? In this fascinating podcast topic, we explore the most effective strategies for identifying problems that can be addressed with AI.
Apr 26, 202330:50
Maimoona Mohammed : Unlocking the Future of Finance - Exploring DeFi and Stablecoins in the Web3.0 Era
As legacy banking infrastructure fails to serve the needs of the modern world, understanding these emerging technologies is essential for individuals and businesses alike.
Mar 26, 202334:05
Vincent Li: Investing in Africa Web3 Startups
In this episode, we speak with Vincent Li, the Founding Partner of Adaverse, a Cardano Ecosystem Accelerator that invests in web3 startups in Africa. Vincent shares his inspiration behind focusing on the African market and how Adaverse navigates the unique challenges and opportunities for web3 startups on the continent.
Vincent also walks us through a case study of a web3 startup that Adaverse has invested in and supported, highlighting its impact on the African ecosystem. He then delves into the key indicators that Adaverse looks for when evaluating potential investments in web3 startups and how they collaborate with other investors globally to support the growth of the web3 ecosystem in Africa.
As more investors and startups enter the web3 space in Africa, Vincent explains how Adaverse maintains its competitive edge and continues to identify and support the most promising ventures. He also shares some exciting developments and upcoming projects that Adaverse is working on in the web3 space and how they will contribute to Africa's tech ecosystem.
Join us in this insightful conversation with Vincent Li to learn about Adaverse's investment strategies in Africa's web3 ecosystem and the potential of web3 technologies in shaping Africa's digital economy.
Learn more about Adverse at www.adaverse.co
Vincent also walks us through a case study of a web3 startup that Adaverse has invested in and supported, highlighting its impact on the African ecosystem. He then delves into the key indicators that Adaverse looks for when evaluating potential investments in web3 startups and how they collaborate with other investors globally to support the growth of the web3 ecosystem in Africa.
As more investors and startups enter the web3 space in Africa, Vincent explains how Adaverse maintains its competitive edge and continues to identify and support the most promising ventures. He also shares some exciting developments and upcoming projects that Adaverse is working on in the web3 space and how they will contribute to Africa's tech ecosystem.
Join us in this insightful conversation with Vincent Li to learn about Adaverse's investment strategies in Africa's web3 ecosystem and the potential of web3 technologies in shaping Africa's digital economy.
Learn more about Adverse at www.adaverse.co
Mar 12, 202324:52
Mark Kleyner- Venture Capital in Africa: Challenges and Opportunities
In this podcast episode, we will delve into the world of venture capital in Africa and the challenges faced by aspiring investors. Mark Kleyner, who is an expert in the field, will share the mission and focus of DREAM VC, an investor accelerator program in Africa that supports and mentors individuals looking to break into venture capital.
We will also discuss the importance of gender diversity in the industry, and the declining amount of funding going to female founders in Africa. Mark will share his story prior to starting Dream VC, why there are limited investments by African Angel Networks and problems with engaging African UHNWI.
Finally, we will take a look at the current state of venture capital investment globally, including data on global funding to startups, global venture funding, and venture capital deals in Africa. Mark will provide insights on the opportunities and challenges for venture capital investment in Africa, and what needs to change for a successful startup investor ecosystem to thrive in African countries and more.
Information on Dream VC:
Register Interest for Dream VC's programs: forms.gle/N6r7vjRfDgdUPHEZ6
Visit Dream VC's website to learn more about how to break in or advance your potential career in the African Venture Capital Industry, through their remote training programs: www.dream-vc.com
See Dream VC's Flagship 5-month comprehensive program for experienced professionals, operators and aspiring leaders: www.dream-vc.com/investor-accelerator
See Dream VC's Popular 3-month skills-based program for aspiring VCs and working professionals looking to break into junior roles at VC funds: www.dream-vc.com/launch-into-vc
We will also discuss the importance of gender diversity in the industry, and the declining amount of funding going to female founders in Africa. Mark will share his story prior to starting Dream VC, why there are limited investments by African Angel Networks and problems with engaging African UHNWI.
Finally, we will take a look at the current state of venture capital investment globally, including data on global funding to startups, global venture funding, and venture capital deals in Africa. Mark will provide insights on the opportunities and challenges for venture capital investment in Africa, and what needs to change for a successful startup investor ecosystem to thrive in African countries and more.
Information on Dream VC:
Register Interest for Dream VC's programs: forms.gle/N6r7vjRfDgdUPHEZ6
Visit Dream VC's website to learn more about how to break in or advance your potential career in the African Venture Capital Industry, through their remote training programs: www.dream-vc.com
See Dream VC's Flagship 5-month comprehensive program for experienced professionals, operators and aspiring leaders: www.dream-vc.com/investor-accelerator
See Dream VC's Popular 3-month skills-based program for aspiring VCs and working professionals looking to break into junior roles at VC funds: www.dream-vc.com/launch-into-vc
Feb 12, 202358:13
Building a tech startup: Lessons from successful founders in Nigeria/Africa
Hello Everyone, welcome to the first episode of the Kurious K podcast of the year proudly sponsored by First City Monument Bank (FCMB).
We flipped the script in this episode, Instead of asking all the questions, Kurious K answered most of the questions. It was a great conversation featuring Morakinyo Fakunle and Abiodun Lawal of FCMB.
During the episode, we explored
Kurious K's journey into tech and the reason for starting the podcast.
The podcast delves into the challenges and steps involved in building a successful startup in Africa and Nigeria, including the key ingredients for scaling in an African economy.
We discussed how early-stage startups should approach funding, the importance of having a support system, and establishing credibility.
The podcast concludes with information on how startups can access funding, infrastructure support, markets from FCMB and more.
We flipped the script in this episode, Instead of asking all the questions, Kurious K answered most of the questions. It was a great conversation featuring Morakinyo Fakunle and Abiodun Lawal of FCMB.
During the episode, we explored
Kurious K's journey into tech and the reason for starting the podcast.
The podcast delves into the challenges and steps involved in building a successful startup in Africa and Nigeria, including the key ingredients for scaling in an African economy.
We discussed how early-stage startups should approach funding, the importance of having a support system, and establishing credibility.
The podcast concludes with information on how startups can access funding, infrastructure support, markets from FCMB and more.
Feb 05, 202336:36
Philip Nkwam: from Hacking to love for building on web3
This is the second part of the Web 3 series-themed version of the Kurious K podcast.
In this episode, we will explore
web3 Applications
Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs)
Subsequent Episodes will explore:
Decentralized Finance (DeFi).
Stablecoins & Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)
Privacy & Digital Infrastructure
The Creator Economy
This episode features Philip Nkwa, Technical Lead on MIRAI Research at St Cyril Cancer Treatment Foundation and technical Trainer at the Bulb Africa.
In this episode, we discussed Philip's Journey into Tech
the core ideas of Web 3
why is Web3 important?
how can people get involved in web 3?
Decentralized Autonomous Organisations DAO
What are smart contracts?
some of the interesting projects he has worked on.
Nov 27, 202236:40
Raphael Edema- From crypto mining to building games on web3
This is the Web 3 series-themed version of the Kurious K podcast.
In this web 3 series, I will be having conversations with founders/ key stakeholders across the African continent and beyond on demystifying web 3 and the opportunities in the space.
As you know Web3 is generating a lot of hype — From the metaverse to decentralized finance to NFTs and beyond.
Imagine an internet built, powered, and owned by its users instead of a few major tech companies like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazon.
Social media users could monetize their own data. Content creators could receive crypto payments directly every time someone views their latest post. Ride-sharing platforms could be owned by the drivers.
This is the promise of Web3, a decentralized internet built on an open, permissionless blockchain network.
This episode features Raphael Edema who is the CEO of Night life Labs. A company with a goal to innovate the future of gaming by building games with more immersive experiences by leveraging cutting-edge technologies.
In this episode, we discuss
- The evolution of the internet from Web 1 to web 3
- The current state of the web 3 ecosystem in Nigeria
- Some use cases that are already gaining traction like
Decentralized gaming
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs)
- Nightlifelabs and what has been his experience of building it.
- Some of the interesting projects Raphael has worked on.
-The state of funding for web 3 startups globally
In this web 3 series, I will be having conversations with founders/ key stakeholders across the African continent and beyond on demystifying web 3 and the opportunities in the space.
As you know Web3 is generating a lot of hype — From the metaverse to decentralized finance to NFTs and beyond.
Imagine an internet built, powered, and owned by its users instead of a few major tech companies like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazon.
Social media users could monetize their own data. Content creators could receive crypto payments directly every time someone views their latest post. Ride-sharing platforms could be owned by the drivers.
This is the promise of Web3, a decentralized internet built on an open, permissionless blockchain network.
This episode features Raphael Edema who is the CEO of Night life Labs. A company with a goal to innovate the future of gaming by building games with more immersive experiences by leveraging cutting-edge technologies.
In this episode, we discuss
- The evolution of the internet from Web 1 to web 3
- The current state of the web 3 ecosystem in Nigeria
- Some use cases that are already gaining traction like
Decentralized gaming
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs)
- Nightlifelabs and what has been his experience of building it.
- Some of the interesting projects Raphael has worked on.
-The state of funding for web 3 startups globally
Oct 09, 202246:02
Micheal Oscar- Connecting digital creatives across Africa.
Oscar Michael is the Co-founder at Africacomicade, one of the leading platforms for African digital creatives, celebrating their works and connecting them to opportunities for learning, collaboration and funding. Oscar is a visionary entrepreneur with interests in Art, Technology, Education, and Human capacity development.
He is an alumnus of MEST Africa, where He learnt software Entrepreneurship, and is an IGDA (International Game Developers Association) Foundation NEXTGEN leader alumnus for the 2021 Virtual Exchange program.
In today's episode with Oscar Micheal We Discuss
- His story of getting into the innovation space
-How did that evolve into building Africacomicade
- The creator's economy
- The current state of the Game industry in Africa compared to other parts of the world
- Africacomicade business model
- Funding- globally creator economy has seen a record $1.3B in funding in 2021 alone, and there has been significant growth in funding across Africa. why is the gaming sector not attracting funds like other sectors?
- What to expect from Gamathon 2022 convention
He is an alumnus of MEST Africa, where He learnt software Entrepreneurship, and is an IGDA (International Game Developers Association) Foundation NEXTGEN leader alumnus for the 2021 Virtual Exchange program.
In today's episode with Oscar Micheal We Discuss
- His story of getting into the innovation space
-How did that evolve into building Africacomicade
- The creator's economy
- The current state of the Game industry in Africa compared to other parts of the world
- Africacomicade business model
- Funding- globally creator economy has seen a record $1.3B in funding in 2021 alone, and there has been significant growth in funding across Africa. why is the gaming sector not attracting funds like other sectors?
- What to expect from Gamathon 2022 convention
Jul 24, 202246:25
Kelvin Ogholi- Making credit access seamless for the unbanked in Sub-Saharan Africa
This episode features Ogholi Kelvin, Cofounder & CEO at CoTrust Equity
CoTrust Equity is a finance and credit-providing company that harnesses extensive knowledge of target audience peculiarities and cultures to provide unique credit plans to banked and unbanked in the rural/sub-urban MSMEs in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
Prior to launching CoTrust Equity, Kelvin founded Unfire which was focused on reducing the cost of feeding poultry. You can check out his pitch at the unreasonable institute here.
We met during the Chivas - The Venture Pitch competition in 2015.
During this episode we discuss:
The problem he was solving with Unfire.
Why running Unfire was unsustainable.
Challenges of building in Nigeria.
Why he started CoTrust Equity?
Default rate on the platform and his business model.
Sacrifices he has made as the founder to keep the light on
Fintech Space in Nigeria and future plans for CoTrust Equity.
Jul 03, 202245:31
Abiodun Lawal - Driving Corporate Innovation
This episode features Abiodun Lawal Head, Tech Ecosystem and Ventures at First City Monument Bank (FCMB)
Prior to that Abiodun worked as Innovation Manager at Seedstars and Business Development Manager at LoftyInc.
In Today's episode with Abiodun, We Discuss:
- His early childhood and his educational background
- The story of Abiodun getting into the innovation space
- keys lessons from running the investment readiness program at Seedstars and what startups need to know
- Thoughts on growth in the innovation ecosystem in Nigeria (Funding, startup Bill)
- Economic downturns and layoffs
- Program Plans for startups at FCMB, including ''Launch'' a program designed for startups looking to launch their products in the coming months and get valuable feedback on their product from an experienced audience.
( Details about the Launch Program)
HubOne by FCMB is providing a launch program where the technical and non-technical audiences will review the app in a relaxing atmosphere and give quality feedback to the founder.
The first launch session is taking place on the 24th of this month with three startups.
Startups can register to pitch at the next Launch session by using this link - bit.ly/HubOneLaunch
Prior to that Abiodun worked as Innovation Manager at Seedstars and Business Development Manager at LoftyInc.
In Today's episode with Abiodun, We Discuss:
- His early childhood and his educational background
- The story of Abiodun getting into the innovation space
- keys lessons from running the investment readiness program at Seedstars and what startups need to know
- Thoughts on growth in the innovation ecosystem in Nigeria (Funding, startup Bill)
- Economic downturns and layoffs
- Program Plans for startups at FCMB, including ''Launch'' a program designed for startups looking to launch their products in the coming months and get valuable feedback on their product from an experienced audience.
( Details about the Launch Program)
HubOne by FCMB is providing a launch program where the technical and non-technical audiences will review the app in a relaxing atmosphere and give quality feedback to the founder.
The first launch session is taking place on the 24th of this month with three startups.
Startups can register to pitch at the next Launch session by using this link - bit.ly/HubOneLaunch
Jun 19, 202230:40
Ajay Ramasubramaniam: Enabling startups and Innovation growth across emerging markets.
Ajay Ramasubramaniam is a seasoned executive with 17 years of experience in setting up, operating, and growing businesses, across diverse geographies such as Africa, Canada, India and Vietnam.
Currently, he is the Founder & CEO of Startup Réseau, a global startup accelerator and corporate innovation programs operator + Co-Founder & CEO, Hindsight Ventures, an Africa focussed startup accelerator.
Ajay has been active in the startup ecosystem for the past 9 years and has built India’s top meta startup accelerator - through which he has set up over 35 corporate accelerator and innovation programs.
Ajay has also built unique properties such as Fintegrate (India's top Fin+Tech conclave over the past 3 years) - for which he has been recognized as a Top-30 FinTech Influencer in India by The Digital Fifth. In the past, Ajay has led the India business for a Canadian ed-tech startup, as well as represented the Canadian Government in India for 5 years.
He started his career in Tanzania, working on AfDB and World Bank projects; including a stint as an intrapreneur, building an agri-tech business. Ajay is an MBA in Marketing & Finance. He is passionate about cricket and is a certified ICC Level-1 cricket coach.
In Today's episode with Ajay We discussed:
-Ajay's career path and how that evolved into building Startup Réseau in India and Hindsight Ventures in emerging markets across Africa and South East Asia.
-Some of the most impactful programs he has organised
-What Nigeria's startup ecosystem can learn from Indians with about 100 Unicorns
-Thoughts on the similarities between Africa and South East Asia tech ecosystem. The funding trajectory in the ecosystems, and program plan across the Continent.
-Building sustainable innovation programs.
-Y Combinator Memo & more
Jun 13, 202240:52
Ammin Youssouf: Putting Africa Startups on a Global Stage
Ammin Youssouf Started his career in Paris in the 90’s just before the tech bubble. After freelancing for a while he founded Big youth, a digital agency company which grew organically to over 40 team members and worked with clients including Ferrari, Kenzo, Citroën, Kronenbourg and more. The company was later acquired.
In 2016 he launched Afrobytes first event in Paris, a platform he tagged - the Ambassador for Africa tech outside of it’s borders.
In this episode we discussed the impressive growth of tech ecosystem in Africa.
What led to the launch of Afrobytes.
Bringing Africa tech to the front stage in Paris and Europe.
Impact of Russian- Ukraine war on Agriculture across the continent and why that influenced the theme of the next Afrobytes event and other exciting stuff.
In 2016 he launched Afrobytes first event in Paris, a platform he tagged - the Ambassador for Africa tech outside of it’s borders.
In this episode we discussed the impressive growth of tech ecosystem in Africa.
What led to the launch of Afrobytes.
Bringing Africa tech to the front stage in Paris and Europe.
Impact of Russian- Ukraine war on Agriculture across the continent and why that influenced the theme of the next Afrobytes event and other exciting stuff.
May 15, 202231:31
Opeyemi Owosho: Working to ensure your cooking gas never run out.
This episode features Opeyemi Owosho who is the co-founder & CEO of Homefort Energy.
Homefort Energy is automating and digitalizing the distribution of cooking gas.
In this episode, we discuss the problem Homefort is solving and some of the products they have built along with the way.
The 90's story of cylinder distribution in Nigeria.
Effect of government policies on product development.
Homefort Business Model.
Key lessons in building hardware products in Nigeria.
Patent Filing in Nigeria.
Funding, Industry trends and his view on competition.
May 08, 202259:33
Mathew Marsden: Equipping Africa’s entrepreneurs for success, through technology and capital.
This episode features Mathew Marsden who is the Co-founder at getlion, a South African based company founded on the premise that Entrepreneurs are the key to Africa’s future. They identify problems, create solutions, build value and grow employment. But sadly, statistics show that 50% of their businesses will fail within the first 2 years.
Mathew is also the Founder at dealbase.Africa - The platform to promote Opportunity 🚀, equip founders to raise Capital 💰 and enable investors to optimize deal-flow.
In this episode, we discussed Mathew role at Various (a wealth advisory business) and how that evolved into founding getlion
- Raising investment for getlion
- getlion business model
-Why he is starting dealbase.Africa and other exciting stuff.
Mathew is also the Founder at dealbase.Africa - The platform to promote Opportunity 🚀, equip founders to raise Capital 💰 and enable investors to optimize deal-flow.
In this episode, we discussed Mathew role at Various (a wealth advisory business) and how that evolved into founding getlion
- Raising investment for getlion
- getlion business model
-Why he is starting dealbase.Africa and other exciting stuff.
Apr 10, 202230:38
Emmanuel Gbolade: Building Voice & Messaging API's for African businesses
This episode features Gbolade Emmanuel who is the CEO at Termii, headquartered in California and a Y Combinator Alumni W20.
Termii is a communications platform (CPaaS) that allows African businesses to send messages to anyone across SMS, email, voice and instant messaging channels.
In this episode, we discussed
The story of founding Termii
How Termii got into YC
Why Emmanuel started Aidi.africa
The essence of building comms infrastructure for African Startups and more.
Termii is a communications platform (CPaaS) that allows African businesses to send messages to anyone across SMS, email, voice and instant messaging channels.
In this episode, we discussed
The story of founding Termii
How Termii got into YC
Why Emmanuel started Aidi.africa
The essence of building comms infrastructure for African Startups and more.
Apr 03, 202238:00
Francis Sani : Breaking down key questions founders should ask a Venture Capitalists
This episode features Francis Sani who is the Principal at Magic Fund
MAGIC Fund is a $30M early-stage venture capital fund built by founders for founders. The fund has backed 70+ tech startups around the world including Bamboo Carrot, Mono, Oxygen, and many more.
In this episode, we discussed Francis' journey getting into the innovation ecosystem and transitioning to a Venture Capital role.
-Magic fund's investment thesis, investment size and deal structure.
-The range of equity Magic fund aim for in a priced round.
- How they find/ source investment deals.
-How long it takes to make an investment decision
-Reporting requirements from startups after investments
Most interestingly we discussed why Francis sold all my stuff and left Lagos to become a digital nomad.
Check out Francis's adventures here: mimh.substack.com/p/1-month-a-nomad-a-two-edged-sword?s=r
Learn more about Magic fund here: www.magic.fund
MAGIC Fund is a $30M early-stage venture capital fund built by founders for founders. The fund has backed 70+ tech startups around the world including Bamboo Carrot, Mono, Oxygen, and many more.
In this episode, we discussed Francis' journey getting into the innovation ecosystem and transitioning to a Venture Capital role.
-Magic fund's investment thesis, investment size and deal structure.
-The range of equity Magic fund aim for in a priced round.
- How they find/ source investment deals.
-How long it takes to make an investment decision
-Reporting requirements from startups after investments
Most interestingly we discussed why Francis sold all my stuff and left Lagos to become a digital nomad.
Check out Francis's adventures here: mimh.substack.com/p/1-month-a-nomad-a-two-edged-sword?s=r
Learn more about Magic fund here: www.magic.fund
Mar 20, 202256:57
Edwin Ajogun: Venture Builder extraordinaire
Edwin's experience cut across building startups and supporting new ventures. He is currently the country manager at Eko Innovation Centre (EIC), where he is responsible for managing various innovation programs and startup portfolios.
Edwin & I have a history of working together as entrepreneurs at Passion incubator so It's great to have him on the show as we discussed his entrepreneurship background, lessons learnt building e-Medrep, his fundraising story, work at Eko Innovation centre and he also made a special announcement for one of EIC’s new program.
Mar 06, 202233:54
Fundamentals of Startup: A Session from Rad5 Startup Club
My friends from Rad 5 Tech Hub reached out to me to speak to entrepreneurs in their startup club. John and Igwe founded the hub in 2017 and they have been working tirelessly to grow the startup ecosystem in Aba ( South East Nigeria).
This week, I decided to share the presentation on my podcast. I hope you enjoy it.
To learn more about Rad 5Tech hub visit rad5.com.ng/
This week, I decided to share the presentation on my podcast. I hope you enjoy it.
To learn more about Rad 5Tech hub visit rad5.com.ng/
Feb 13, 202235:47
Temitope Ekundayo : Democratizing access to startup funding with GetEquity
This episode features Temitope Babatunde Ekundayo who is CEO at Printivo | Co-Founder at Getequity.io
We discussed his transition from Printivo to GetEquity which is a company that is challenging the status quo of startup financing and venture capital. Over $400,000 USD has been raised on the platform.
We discuss his :
Education background.
Starting his consulting business.
Story around joining Printivo founding team.
Market product fit thesis for building startups.
Starting GetEquity and it’s business model.
This podcast episode should not be considered as an offer or solicitation to sell, buy or subscribe to any financial instruments or regarded as investment advice.
We discussed his transition from Printivo to GetEquity which is a company that is challenging the status quo of startup financing and venture capital. Over $400,000 USD has been raised on the platform.
We discuss his :
Education background.
Starting his consulting business.
Story around joining Printivo founding team.
Market product fit thesis for building startups.
Starting GetEquity and it’s business model.
This podcast episode should not be considered as an offer or solicitation to sell, buy or subscribe to any financial instruments or regarded as investment advice.
Feb 06, 202249:33
Quotes
I spoke about some interesting quotes I have compiled for some years.
Jan 30, 202205:45
Eunice Ajim : Boldly funding African Startups
Eunice Ajim (Cameroonian-American Tech Entrepreneur) is the founding partner of Ajim capital- a $10 million fund set to invest in African Tech Startups. Eunice has been a 2x tech founder and an executive having spent early years of her career with Apple & later leading a $10M+ revenue tech startup.
The fund provides checks of $25,000- $125,000 to pre-seed and seed tech enabled companies across Africa.
In the episode we discuss her background as an international student from Cameroon to USA.
Career at Apple, her struggling startup and pivot, fundraising journey, Ajim's investment thesis and more.
To learn more about Ajim Capital visit - www.ajimcapital.com
Jan 23, 202226:16
Daniel Bloch : Powering real estate with Blockchain Solutions
This episode feature Daniel Bloch who has spent the last nine years building blockchain solutions.
Daniel is currently the CEO of Seso Global, Africa’s property super app that enables secure transaction in property management platform leveraging blockchain. Before Seso, he has co founded a cryptocurrency exchange platform and launched a blockchain Education Network, a nonprofit that provides Blockchain educational initiatives at Universities in over ten countries worldwide.
Seso Global was launched in 2017 after series of iterations & has raised 1 million USD.
Links to Check:
Africa Prop-tech Pitch Series event here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxmVNcAqXC8
Building Web App with no code - https://bubble.io/
Jan 16, 202238:07
Ayo Dawodu: Enabling businesses drive repeat sales with Loystar
In 2014 Ayo Dawodu hosted the first lean startup Machine workshop in Africa. Ayo is not just an ecosystem builder, he founded Loystar in 2016 to help businesses build loyalty, not just sell.
In this conversation we discuss lean startup methodology, starting out Loystar, fundraising, adoption of loyalty system by businesses, competition and challenges he has faced building loystar.
Recommended Book:
Lean Startup Methodology by Eric Ries
The Four Steps to the Epiphany: Successful Strategies for Products that Win by Steve Blank
In this conversation we discuss lean startup methodology, starting out Loystar, fundraising, adoption of loyalty system by businesses, competition and challenges he has faced building loystar.
Recommended Book:
Lean Startup Methodology by Eric Ries
The Four Steps to the Epiphany: Successful Strategies for Products that Win by Steve Blank
Jan 09, 202235:22
Dare Odumade: Solving Africa fake drugs & FMCG counterfeiting problem
Globally, the trade in counterfeit pharmaceuticals is worth up to $200bn.
Over 100,000 people die annually in Africa as a result of counterfeit anti malaria drugs based on report from World health Organization. Dare Odumade is building Chekkit to solve this problem. Chekkit is not just an anti counterfeit technology, his platform is also a serialization and consumer intelligence platform.
Chekkit specializes in developing software for food, beverage and medicine distribution, tracking & consumer intelligence through anti-fake services which makes physical product smart and traceable across the supply chain both offline and online.
Dare has been a 3x founder and Chekkit has raised over $600k in equity and grants financing.
In this episode we discussed:
His past ventures, key Lessons and mistakes starting out
How Chekkit is using blockchain technology to solve counterfeiting
How anti-counterfeiting activities can deepened with government policies
Customer acquisition & Fundraising
Future plans for Chekkit and more
Dec 05, 202158:47
Segun Adeyemi: Leveraging Fintech to drive prosperity in Africa
This episode features Segun Adeyemi who built and exited Amplify payment to OneFi (Carbon) in March 2019. Segun started out as an investment banker with a career goal to become the Governor of the Central bank of Nigeria until he caught the tech bug.
He recently served as the country Manager of Jumo in Nigeria which is a market leading banking as a service platform, enabling real-time access to funds at the lowest possible operating cost. Jumo was recently valued at $400 million, according to The Times.
In this episode we discussed:
Segun’s journey through MEST.
Starting out Amplify pay and building it to over 1000 merchants and doing over 2 Million USD recurring revenue before acquisition.
Banking as a service & financial services play for businesses.
Importance of Bitcoin other exciting stuffs.
Check out Seguns's Map of Fin-tech and its key players in Nigeria (2020)analysis here:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-happened-fintech-2020-key-highlights-nigeria-segun-adeyemi/
Nov 28, 202145:45
Abake Adenle: Using technology to make African languages cool
In this episode, 'the 20th Episode' we hosted Abake Adenle on the Show, She is the founder of AJALA Studios, a company that make tools that enable enterprises build voice automation experiences in African Language with initial focus on voice recognition (something like Siri or Alexa) and speech synthesis. Her company is currently working on Yoruba, Igbo Hausa and Swahili.
Before starting her company she has worked with Morgan Stanley as equity derivative strategist and had a very interesting educational background moving straight from undergrad to PhD.
In this episode we discussed her educational background
Career with Morgan Stanley
Starting out Ajala studios
Why she did not want to pursue Venture Capital funding
Artificial Intelligence and African Enterprises
Hiring and more
Check out Ajala website here: www.ajala.ai/
Before starting her company she has worked with Morgan Stanley as equity derivative strategist and had a very interesting educational background moving straight from undergrad to PhD.
In this episode we discussed her educational background
Career with Morgan Stanley
Starting out Ajala studios
Why she did not want to pursue Venture Capital funding
Artificial Intelligence and African Enterprises
Hiring and more
Check out Ajala website here: www.ajala.ai/
Nov 14, 202131:02
Folagbade Timileyin: Solving Small Businesses Access to Credit
With over 44 million small businesses across the African Continent, access to credit for them has never been easy even though Small businesses has been referenced as the backbone of the economy and the key to growth in Africa in many publications. There is still a lot of market friction that happens to make credit accessible to them. For these businesses to grow, create more jobs, they need access to capital that is affordable.
In this episode, my conversation with Timileyin, Co-founder of Guava credit explores the opportunity in the B2B (Business to Business) credit market.
His experience building business in logistics and insurance.
Growth trajectory in the Fintech space and more
In this episode, my conversation with Timileyin, Co-founder of Guava credit explores the opportunity in the B2B (Business to Business) credit market.
His experience building business in logistics and insurance.
Growth trajectory in the Fintech space and more
Nov 07, 202127:32
Kedumetse Liphi & Tawanda Matambo: Visionaries building Innovative Hardware products in Botswana
In this episode, we explored the innovative ecosystem of Botswana where I had a very cool conversation with two visionaries from Botswana building Ked- Liphi, an electrical technology company with an innovation division which focuses on creating practical everyday use inventions.
During the lock-down in 2020 they invented an Automatic Diagnostic Combo machine, that assists in rapid COVID-19 tracking, the machine is a combination of face recognition & thermal temperature scanning that has application across different industries including events and Immigration.
Before then they have invented other products including a Solar Backpack which was manufactured to help individuals to boost up lighting or gadget charging when there are power cuts. This innovation also help kids in rural areas and major cities across Africa to have functional backpacks were we know there is no predictable power supply
In this episode we discussed
The importance of building the hardware ecosystem in Africa
Funding
Government receptiveness to homegrown technologies
The future of Ked-Liphi and more
Need more information? connect with the founders here; +267 75639143/+26772135676
Recommended Music: Buy Africa by Fela Kuti
https://music.apple.com/ng/album/buy-africa/595818514?i=595818642
Oct 31, 202149:43
Joshua Okpata: Innovation Consultant
Josh started building business as a teenager. In 2014 he founded Eazyhire which was venture backed then joined Mest Africa some years later as a Venture partner. He is currently working with United Nations as a consultant.
In this Episode, we discussed
How he started Eazyhire
Eazyhire Plagiarism story
Funding in Nigeria Tech Ecosystem Nigeria Startup bill and more
Resources:
Read more about Eazyhire Plagiarism story here: techpoint.africa/2016/03/10/eazyhire-vs-easyhire/
In this Episode, we discussed
How he started Eazyhire
Eazyhire Plagiarism story
Funding in Nigeria Tech Ecosystem Nigeria Startup bill and more
Resources:
Read more about Eazyhire Plagiarism story here: techpoint.africa/2016/03/10/eazyhire-vs-easyhire/
Oct 24, 202139:57
Dr Sandra Bakare: Solving Africa's Remittance and Logistics Problem
While studying in Ukraine, Sandra Bakare witnessed firsthand her friends being expelled from school. The reason? not because of bad behavior or bad grades nor broke parents. It was simply because the parents could not effectively send school fees from Nigeria to Ukraine. This is one of the issues of outward remittance in Nigeria which is also inhibiting trade and growth within the African continent.
In this episode I had a great conversation with Dr. Sandra Bakare who is solving the problem with Brownpay which is a multi-currency crypto remittance platform that connects the African market to the rest of the world.
We discussed :
How she started
Funding
Her other ventures
Future throttle event and her view on male dominated tech ecosystem and more
This episode is dedicated to the International Day of Girl the Child celebrated on October 11 of every year as declared by United Nations with this year theme tagged
Digital generation'. Our generation'
In this episode I had a great conversation with Dr. Sandra Bakare who is solving the problem with Brownpay which is a multi-currency crypto remittance platform that connects the African market to the rest of the world.
We discussed :
How she started
Funding
Her other ventures
Future throttle event and her view on male dominated tech ecosystem and more
This episode is dedicated to the International Day of Girl the Child celebrated on October 11 of every year as declared by United Nations with this year theme tagged
Digital generation'. Our generation'
Oct 17, 202134:54
Princewill Fidelis: African Entrepreneurship in the backdrop of Value Creation
In this episode we explored how unpopular philosophical perception may actually be the key to unlocking the young African entrepreneurial spirit as opposed to running in a bottleneck popular framework of bringing ideas to fruition where a huge amount of money is needed.
This episodes features Princewill Fidelis who is very passionate about African entrepreneurship, he has background in research, innovation, control systems, turbines technology, and strategic planning.
He is a Nuclear Physicist with focus of his work on how energy can be produced efficiently reducing carbon footprint across the globe. He is an environmentalist and always looking for ways to put Africa on the map about conversation that revolves around climate change.
This episodes features Princewill Fidelis who is very passionate about African entrepreneurship, he has background in research, innovation, control systems, turbines technology, and strategic planning.
He is a Nuclear Physicist with focus of his work on how energy can be produced efficiently reducing carbon footprint across the globe. He is an environmentalist and always looking for ways to put Africa on the map about conversation that revolves around climate change.
Oct 10, 202139:14
Ahmad Mukoshy: Web hosting from Nigeria to the World
Ahmad has been building tech solution as far back as mid 2000's in Nigeria. In 2010 he had his first acquisition and then moved his focus to building Gigalayer which is one of the biggest web hosting company in Nigeria with over 14,000 clients covering other countries in Africa.
Ahmad is a full-stack developer with lots of passion for web technology & internet businesses.
In this episode we discussed how he started Gigalayer
Lean Startup methodology
The Story behind his first acquisition
His perspective on bootstrapping and fundraising and lot of other existing stuff.
Check out Gigalayer on https://gigalayer.com/
Oct 03, 202135:41
Nicolas Waern: Supporting startups & scale up across the Globe
Nicolas Waern Invested in my startup back in 2014. Ever since we have been friends and it's awesome to have him on the show. Nicolas has a passion to make the world a better place for everyone.
In this episode, we discussed European stereotypes in investing in African Startups, issues around climate change, smart buildings and many more.
In this episode, we discussed European stereotypes in investing in African Startups, issues around climate change, smart buildings and many more.
Sep 26, 202122:30
Abraham Iyiola: Helping organizations across Africa attract and recruit the best talents.
Abraham Iyiola is the Co-founder/CEO of CareerBuddy and Tamborin. He had a very interesting career starting out as leading AIESEC International in Nigeria and later led Talent Management at Jumia Nigeria in the early days.
In this episode we discussed his foray into entrepreneurship.
How CareerBuddy is changing organization culture towards talents.
Tech talent in Nigeria and the pace the Nigeria tech ecosystem is losing software developers to other countries.
How we can build a continuous pipeline of tech talent in Nigeria.
Funding and more
Recommended Book; The world is Flat by Thomas Friedman
In this episode we discussed his foray into entrepreneurship.
How CareerBuddy is changing organization culture towards talents.
Tech talent in Nigeria and the pace the Nigeria tech ecosystem is losing software developers to other countries.
How we can build a continuous pipeline of tech talent in Nigeria.
Funding and more
Recommended Book; The world is Flat by Thomas Friedman
Sep 19, 202131:11
Emmanuel Adegboye: Solving Africa's biggest challenges
By the end of the century, (2100) Lagos is forecasted to have a population of 0ver 80 million people, Dar Es Salaam over 70m.
Emmanuel Adegboye as the Africa Strategy Lead for Utopia is working to make sure we have better cities across Africa as the population grows exponentially.
In this podcast, we discussed Emmanuel's Journey into being an ecosystem leader, from being the Entrepreneurship Center Manager at Andela to Leading Utopia work in Africa and currently part of the Presidential Advisory Strategic Group of the Nigerian Startup Bill.
We discussed why entrepreneurs should care about the bill & the benefits and why this is the best time to implement it.
To learn more and be part of the Nigeria StartupBill Visit https://startupbill.ng/
Sep 12, 202130:32
The Why for African Entrepreneurs
In this episode, the host of the kurious k podcast (Kolapo) took the time out to distil lessons from the first 9 episodes.
Sep 05, 202135:32
Confidence Odionye: Building Africa's Drone Future
In this episode, we had a great conversation with Confidence Odioinye, the founder and president of Beatdrone. Beatdrone was one of the pioneering businesses in the drone sector in Nigeria in 2017. Initially, in 2014, he started his journey as the first cohort of Passion Incubator with an idea of building a traffic management system and he later pivoted to using drones.
The company currently provide services for companies in Agriculture, mining and oil and gas industry.
In this podcast, we discussed
How he started
Raising his seed funding from Audu Maikori( Co-founder of Chocolate City Entertainment )
Launching his drone academy and partnership with the University of Ibadan, Ondo State, his impact so far and more
The company currently provide services for companies in Agriculture, mining and oil and gas industry.
In this podcast, we discussed
How he started
Raising his seed funding from Audu Maikori( Co-founder of Chocolate City Entertainment )
Launching his drone academy and partnership with the University of Ibadan, Ondo State, his impact so far and more
Aug 29, 202131:57
Blessing Kwomo: Using Phytomedicine (Plant based medicine) to transform healthcare across the world
In 2014 –Just before her 19th birthday – Blessing Kwomo launched De Rehoboth Therapeutic Studio, which offers a holistic approach to healthcare.
The Company extends home-based health care through tailored family action plans for treating illness and addressing root causes to empower families to live healthier within the context of their surroundings/circumstances.
We met in 2018 during a Slush Global Impact Accelerator Program I organised for social entrepreneurs in Nigeria in collaboration with the foreign ministry of foreign affairs in Finland and her business impact has been growing ever since. Her company has over 20 plant-based products approved by NAFDAC( National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration & Control ) and her protocol has been effective in treating a stage 5 cancer in Ireland where she is currently running her Company. Her protocol have won numerous awards ranging from -Shell live wire award, Anzisha prize award, University of Limerick innovative foundation award for best social impact category and more.
In this episode,
We discussed her impact over the years and the future of phytomedicine.
Aug 22, 202126:25
Andrew Airelobhegbe: Building a Pan African Neo Bank with Lenco
Andrew is a veteran entrepreneur in the Nigeria tech ecosystem who started building startups since his university days. In 2015 he co-founded ogaVenue, Nigeria's Largest online event venue booking portal with operation in 6 African countries which at its peak, before COVID 19 was doing 7 figures USD in Gross Merchandise Value. The platform was designed
to make it easy for an event host to search, check availability and book a preferred venue in minutes and now he is building Lenco.ng , a pan-African neo bank for businesses.
In this episode, we had a very beautiful conversation where we discussed,
Why he started OgaVenue and the Pivot to Lenco.
Impact of Covid 19 on Ogavenue.
Getting his first Investment from Jason Njoku and Hotels.ng in the early days.
Lenco's unique business model as it relates to the Nigerian investment landscape and more.
to make it easy for an event host to search, check availability and book a preferred venue in minutes and now he is building Lenco.ng , a pan-African neo bank for businesses.
In this episode, we had a very beautiful conversation where we discussed,
Why he started OgaVenue and the Pivot to Lenco.
Impact of Covid 19 on Ogavenue.
Getting his first Investment from Jason Njoku and Hotels.ng in the early days.
Lenco's unique business model as it relates to the Nigerian investment landscape and more.
Aug 15, 202136:54
Ng'winula Kingamkono: Transforming Tanzanian’s Financial Habits with Tunzaa
In this episode, we took a quick stop at Tanzania where I had an amazing conversation with Ng'winula Kingamkono.
Ng’ winula has been building software solutions and startups for the past 10 years and recently launched Tunzaa which is a fintech startup that uses technology to transform the financial habits of consumers and connects businesses to buyers.
During the podcast, we discussed
Why he started Tunzaa
Tanzania Startup Ecosystem
Funding in East Africa
Mobile Money in Tanzania
Building Guumzo (a voice sharing social network Solution like Clubhouse back in 2015) and his effort getting to product-market fit.
Ng’ winula has been building software solutions and startups for the past 10 years and recently launched Tunzaa which is a fintech startup that uses technology to transform the financial habits of consumers and connects businesses to buyers.
During the podcast, we discussed
Why he started Tunzaa
Tanzania Startup Ecosystem
Funding in East Africa
Mobile Money in Tanzania
Building Guumzo (a voice sharing social network Solution like Clubhouse back in 2015) and his effort getting to product-market fit.
Aug 08, 202128:09