Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa has revealed the winners and top finalists of Nigeria’s “More Than A Woman” initiative, Phase 2.
This prestigious program showcases Innovate UK’s commitment to empowering grassroots women innovators, recognizing their vital contributions to Nigeria’s economy and innovation ecosystem.
The #MoreThanAWoman initiative was initially piloted in South Africa in 2022/2023, yielding remarkable success. Building on this momentum, the program was expanded to Nigeria and Kenya this year. Through this initiative, Innovate UK sought to identify and nurture talented women innovators.
Over 100 applicants vied for a spot in the program, with selected participants receiving comprehensive pitch training and intensive business planning training.
Leveraging Innovate UK’s innovative Innovation Canvas, these women innovators honed their skills, positioning themselves for success.
Chidubem Ejezie, Knowledge Transfer Manager for Global Alliance Africa, Nigeria, also shared his insights on the #MoreThanAWoman campaign.
“Listening to the incredible innovations being led by the early-stage women entrepreneurs in their communities reminds me of the untold stories of grit, hard work, and perseverance among Nigerian (African) women.
“The #MorethanaWoman Initiative is just peaking, and I look forward to hearing more of these untold stories and exploring how we can better support women in their innovation journeys,” he said.
The MoreThanAWoman initiative reached its climax with the final pitch event, held after comprehensive pitch and business planning training.
Following spirited presentations, judges’ deliberations, and rigorous evaluations, the winners of the two prestigious award categories – “Most Potential for Impact” and “Best Pitch” – were proudly announced.
The “Most Potential for Impact” award went to Fidi Lewi, Founder of Difian Global Concepts Ltd, a pioneering company transforming tomato production. Difian Global Concepts Ltd reduces post-harvest waste and offers consumers a reliable, durable, and delicious substitute for fresh tomatoes.
The Best Pitch award went to Odunola Olabintan, Founder of The Health City, a pioneering social enterprise. Through its tech-enabled platform, The Health City offers health education and services tailored for adolescents and young people, focusing on prevention and early intervention to combat chronic and infectious diseases.
The winners of the MoreThanAWoman initiative will benefit from comprehensive support, courtesy of Innovate UK. This inclusive package includes expert guidance, business planning, and pitch training, as well as valuable networking opportunities with key investors and ecosystem players.
In addition to the winners, three other innovators were recognized as finalists: Aisha Lawal, Founder of Aisha Poultry Products and Agribusiness; Jummai Victor, Founder of Top-City; and Sidikat Folami, CEO of Mateen Lander Resources. These trailblazers will also receive ongoing support from Innovate UK.
Through its Global Alliance Africa program, Innovate UK remains committed to empowering female innovators across the continent.
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