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At Anambra Innovation Week 2024, themed “Creating the Future of Africa, Now,” the CEO of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), Daser David, described tech entrepreneurs as the pillars of the continent’s growth. He advised them to prioritize scalability and social impact in their startups. Daser spoke on the topic, “Building a Scalable Business Model for a Startup.” He emphasized the importance of creating innovative solutions that address Africa’s pressing challenges while fostering economic growth.
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Building for Scalability and Social Impact
David urged startups to embed scalability into their business models from inception. This will allow them to grow sustainably and make a wider impact. He also called on investors to support startups with both scalability potential and measurable social benefits. Furthermore, he encouraged policymakers to create ecosystems that enable startups to thrive, innovate, and expand.
Addressing Challenges to Scaling Startups in Africa
Highlighting key barriers such as infrastructure deficits, funding shortages, regulatory hurdles, and a lack of skilled talent, David outlined strategies for overcoming these obstacles:
- Collaboration: Partner with governments, NGOs, and larger corporations to tackle infrastructure and funding gaps.
- Talent Development: Invest in training local talent to close skill gaps and build solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges.
- Innovation: Turn limitations into strengths by focusing on mobile-first technologies and decentralized services.
Seizing Opportunities Through Intra-African Trade
David emphasized that startups building for longevity, community empowerment, and intra-African trade would define the continent’s future. Leveraging frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can help startups expand across borders, enabling them to offer solutions with continent-wide relevance and impact.
A Vision for Africa’s Startups
David remarked “The future belongs to startups that build scalable, impactful businesses that empower communities and drive Africa’s growth. Platforms like AfCFTA offer an unprecedented opportunity for startups to break boundaries and create a united African market.”
Anambra Innovation Week 2024 continues to serve as a hub for thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to collaborate on shaping Africa’s tech-driven future.
