Update

In the exciting world of business, Skyline University recently hosted an inspiring roundtable discussion featuring some of the most innovative minds, with Start-up Kano right in the midst of it. This marked the fourth collaboration between Start-up Kano and the university, sharing valuable insights with final-year students, and guiding them toward success in the entrepreneurial world. The university graciously invited Startup Kano to share professional experience and thoughts on the entrepreneurial mindset and skillset, and the team was proudly represented by the Executive Director, Aisha Tofa. Why Start Young? Starting your entrepreneurial journey early offers numerous benefits. Young minds are adaptable and resilient, making it easier to navigate the unpredictable business world. “Don’t think that you are in Skyline University and boast about your parent’s wealth. Success is more about the effort you put in than your background. Besides your parents will be proud and be willing to do more for you if you do more for yourself” -Aisha Tofa Starting early provides more time to learn from mistakes and improve ideas. The focus on being energetic aligns perfectly with the idea that youthful determination can drive innovation and long-term success. Most young entrepreneurs aren’t afraid to take risks. They are always willing to try new things. Their eagerness and lack of fear help them be adventurous and open to experimenting with different ideas. Moreover, this fearlessness can be a valuable quality, allowing individuals to explore new opportunities and take on challenges without being held back by too many worries. It’s a positive mindset that can shape the early stages of a professional journey. What to Keep In Mind Mentorship Aisha Tofa emphasized the significance of mentorship in the journey of an entrepreneur. “It’s quite important to have a mentor,” she shared with enthusiasm. “However, don’t just bump into them with an empty hand. Make sure you have something tangible to present. Have value and bring something of value to the table.” Connections can make quite a huge difference. Moreover, approaching a mentor with a clear understanding of what you can contribute sets the foundation for a meaningful and reciprocal relationship. Effective Communication When you’re running a business, it’s not just about talking well; it’s about making sure everyone understands your ideas. Sometimes, you may be talking to people who might invest in your business, sometimes to your team, and other times to customers, whichever the case may be, being able to explain things clearly is super important. Practice talking about your business in a simple way, and be open to feedback. Clear communication helps everyone understand each other better and builds good relationships, which are really important for making your business work well. Networking Networking is a powerful tool. This is not just about exchanging business cards; it’s about building relationships and being present in the right places at the right time. Attending events and making connections can lead to unexpected opportunities. Tofa’s advice, “You don’t know where you will meet the right helping hands,” reminds us that every networking opportunity can shape your entrepreneurial journey. Continuous Learning: What you see today can be old school tomorrow; that’s how the world of starting business works. This is why it is super important to keep learning all the time. Stay curious and never stop growing. This means taking classes, going to workshops, or attending events to get better at what you do. When you’re always learning, you become better at solving problems and can adapt to changes easily. Remember, being open to learning from both good and not-so-good experiences is a big key to making your business successful. Starting early, staying curious, and learning continuously, along with effective communication, networking, and mentorship, are keys to navigating the unpredictable business journey. With this guidance, future business leaders can confidently enter the business world, ready for long-term success. The shared wisdom not only inspires but also sets the stage for a new wave of determined and innovative entrepreneurs.

Maryam Lawal Gwadabe: Pioneering Technopreneur Appointed Special Adviser to Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy In a groundbreaking move for Nigeria’s digital landscape, Maryam Lawal Gwadabe has been appointed as the Special Adviser to the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. With a remarkable track record as the former CEO of Bluesphare Hub in Kano, Maryam’s ascent to this prestigious role is a testament to her status as a pioneering technopreneur dedicated to advancing the nation’s digital economy. As the newly appointed Special Adviser, Maryam Lawal Gwadabe’s mandate is clear: to lead the charge in shaping and executing policies and initiatives that will steer Nigeria towards digital transformation and inclusivity. With her extensive experience in the technology sector, she is uniquely poised to tackle the challenges and harness the vast opportunities presented by the ever-evolving digital landscape. This appointment underscores Maryam’s unwavering dedication, expertise, and remarkable achievements throughout her career. Her profound understanding of the catalytic potential of technology, particularly its role in driving economic growth and societal progress, is poised to usher in a new era of innovation within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. Maryam Lawal Gwadabe’s leadership promises to leave an indelible mark on the nation’s journey towards a tech-driven future. Elevate Your Brand with Stunning Product Photography: Dive into the Blue Welcome to September, where creativity and aesthetics collide! At @sals_epiphany one of startup Kano’s pitchstar Alumni, this month is all about celebrating the tranquil charm of the color blue. If blue is a part of your brand’s identity, get ready for an irresistible offer that can take your product visuals to the next level. Picture this: a 50% discounted product photoshoot tailored to showcase your brand’s blue-themed products in all their glory. In a world driven by visuals, the way your products are presented can make or break your brand’s appeal. With this exclusive promotion, you have the chance to collaborate with a seasoned product photographer in Abuja who knows how to capture the essence of your blue-infused products. Whether it’s the soothing shade of blue in your baby care line or a striking blue packaging for your beauty products, this is the moment to make your brand shine. Don’t wait; reach out via DM to secure your spot for this limited-time opportunity and watch your products come to life with the artistry of product styling and photography. It’s time to elevate your brand and captivate your audience in the world of visual storytelling.  Empowering Nano & Micro Enterprises: Grant Opportunity for Those Affected by Fuel Subsidy Removal In a move to support Nano and Micro enterprises in Nigeria adversely impacted by the removal of fuel subsidies, an international investor has joined forces with Bspace Technology to provide a lifeline. This initiative aims to create access to grants ranging from N1 million to N5 million, providing much-needed relief to businesses struggling in the wake of this significant policy change. For Nano and Micro enterprises interested in this opportunity, there are some essential criteria to meet. Firstly, your enterprise must have been in operation for at least two years as of 2023. Additionally, even businesses with business names are eligible to apply. The total number of grants available from each state stands at 70, presenting a considerable opportunity for deserving enterprises across Nigeria. To seize this chance, find out more here Empowering Women in Engineering: Julius Berger’s 2023 Female Scholarship Are you a female undergraduate studying engineering in a Nigerian public university? If so, here’s an opportunity that could change the course of your academic journey. Julius Berger is offering a merit-based scholarship exclusively for full-time female engineering students, and the 2023 edition is now open for applications. This initiative aims to support and empower young women pursuing engineering degrees in Nigeria, fostering gender diversity in a field that has traditionally been male-dominated. To be eligible, applicants must be Nigerian citizens, enrolled in Federal or State-Owned Universities in Nigeria, and majoring in Engineering, Environmental, or Technology-related fields. Additionally, applicants should currently be in their second year of full-time study and maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 in a 5-grade system. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also encourages and recognizes the dedication and talent of female engineering students across the nation. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to advance your education and career in engineering. The deadline for applications is October 9, 2023, so seize this chance and apply here  candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/JBN   now through the official scholarship portal. Julius Berger’s commitment to supporting female engineers is not only commendable but also a step forward in breaking down gender barriers in STEM fields. By offering this scholarship, they are not only investing in the education of these young women but also paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in engineering. So, if you are a female engineering student with a passion for innovation and a dream of making a mark in the field, this scholarship could be your ticket to success. Apply here today and take a significant step towards achieving your academic and career aspirations in engineering.  Revolutionizing Education in Northeast Nigeria: NEHIH and IRC Join Forces In a remarkable stride towards enhancing education in Northeast Nigeria, the Northeast Humanitarian Innovation Hub (NEHIH) has unveiled an inspiring collaboration with the International Rescue Committee (IRC). This partnership, driven by a shared vision of progress, is set to revolutionize learning opportunities for the region’s youth and address the plight of out-of-school children in the Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) states. NEHIH’s mission to drive social change through innovation finds a powerful ally in IRC’s commitment to supporting communities recovering from conflict and disaster. At its core, this partnership aligns with the USAID’s Opportunities to Learn (OTL) Activity, an initiative backed by a $25 million Cooperative Agreement under IRC’s leadership. The OTL initiative’s dual focus on immediate education support and long-term systemic improvement sets the stage for transformative change. Its ultimate goal is to equip young minds with essential skills for higher education,

 At Startup Kano , we believe in a future where technology propels businesses in Northern Nigeria to new heights. Our game plan is designed to transform this vision into reality, empowering individuals, organizations, and innovative entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital era. Our secret lies in our strategic positioning, allowing us to cater to the diverse needs of the ecosystem with precision and finesse. We understand that success requires both short-term support and long-term planning, which is why we conduct monthly reviews and quarterly overviews to ensure we stay ahead of the game. Picture this: every month, our team dives deep into the pulse of the entrepreneurial landscape, analyzing our progress and fine-tuning our strategies. This iterative process fuels our growth, enabling us to adapt swiftly and effectively. Then, with each passing quarter, we zoom out to take a broader view, crafting a meticulous plan for the next phase of our journey. But we’re not just about numbers and charts. Startup Kano is fueled by passion and a burning desire to make a difference. We exist to be the wind beneath the wings of digital pioneers, providing them with the resources, guidance, and unwavering support they need to soar to unprecedented heights. Imagine partnering with us. Together, we’ll unlock your potential and supercharge your growth. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur with a game-changing idea or an established organization seeking digital transformation, we have tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. Our commitment to the Northern region runs deep. We believe in its untapped potential and are dedicated to unleashing it through technology-driven innovation. By working hand-in-hand with Startup Kano, you’ll gain access to a thriving ecosystem, a network of like-minded visionaries, and cutting-edge tools that will propel you towards success. Join us on this thrilling journey towards a better future. Let’s redefine what’s possible, break boundaries, and create a thriving digital economy in Northern Nigeria. Together, we’ll turn dreams into reality and make an indelible mark on the world. Welcome to Startup Kano, where technology meets limitless opportunities. Recognizing Excellence: Celebrating BIP Graduates’ Certificates of Achievement. Your journey through the program was no small feat. You engaged in a series of meticulously designed modules that challenged your intellect and honed your skills. The rigorous study and assessment process pushed the boundaries of your understanding, enabling you to grasp the intricacies of blockchain technology and its myriad applications. Congratulations on completing the Blockchain Innovation Program and achieving a remarkable milestone in your professional journey! We are thrilled to present you with a prestigious Certificate of Achievement, a testament to your dedication, hard work, and expertise in the captivating world of blockchain technology. This certificate holds immense value, representing your qualification as a distinguished blockchain professional. It is not merely a certificate of participation, but a symbol of your outstanding achievements and the comprehensive knowledge you have gained throughout the program. This groundbreaking initiative is a collaborative endeavor between the esteemed National Innovation and Technology Development Agency of Nigeria and the trailblazing BSV Blockchain Association. By being part of this program, you have joined a select group of individuals who have been empowered with cutting-edge insights and practical expertise in blockchain technology. By holding this certificate, you possess tangible evidence of your expertise in blockchain, solidifying your position as a leader in this rapidly evolving field. Its significance extends far beyond a mere token; it serves as a gateway to exciting opportunities, recognition, and professional advancement in diverse industries that rely on the power of blockchain. As you embark on this new chapter as a certified blockchain professional, your skills and knowledge will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the industry. Embrace the immense potential of blockchain technology, and let your expertise shape the future, as you unlock innovative solutions, revolutionize processes, and contribute to the global digital transformation. Once again, congratulations on your exceptional achievement! Your dedication and perseverance have propelled you to the forefront of blockchain innovation. We eagerly anticipate the remarkable contributions you will make as a certified blockchain professional. May your journey be filled with continued success, growth, and endless possibilities! GEC Africa presents Regional Pitching Competition. Hello Nigerian startups, I wanted to bring your attention to an exciting opportunity available to you in the form of the GEC+Africa Regional Pitching Competition Programme. If you are involved in agritech, edutech, cleantech, healthtech, or fintech, this could be your chance to shine. The program offers you the chance to represent Nigeria in South Africa and compete for a remarkable prize of $100,000. Whether you are a pre-seed or seed-stage tech startup with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), or a post-revenue non-tech startup or SME, you are eligible to apply. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your innovation, skills, and potential. It could be the stepping stone that takes your venture to new heights. Don’t let this chance slip away. Please note that the application deadline is July 14, 2023. To apply, visit www.gecafrica.co/lead-up-activities and submit your application as soon as possible. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. It’s time to make your mark and seize the opportunity that awaits you. Best of luck with your application and future endeavors! Watch out for the Creative Business Cup Nigeria 2023 Calling all creative entrepreneurs! Are you ready to take your business idea to new heights? The Creative Business Cup Nigeria 2023 is here to ignite your passion and propel your success!  Join us for an exhilarating journey that goes beyond a mere competition. The Creative Business Cup is a global initiative that empowers creative minds like yours, offering year-round support to help you grow your business, connect with investors and global markets, and supercharge your innovative capabilities.  Why focus on the creative industries, you ask? Because they are the powerhouse of economic growth and employment worldwide! By fostering cross-sector innovation, these industries bring fresh perspectives to traditional challenges, creating a dynamic and competitive society. At CBC Nigeria, we aim to empower not just participating startups, but the entire