Startup Wise Guys launches first programme in Africa 

One of Europe’s most experienced and well-known B2B startup accelerators Startup Wise Guys has launched its first programme in Africa. The programme is currently operating in Namibia and has been jointly organised by Startup Namibia and Key2Investors. 

Startup Wise Guys has launched its first programme in Africa, taking place in Namibia

According to reports, Startup Wise Guys plans to launch an additional four programmes in Africa by 2022 with a strong focus on East and West Africa. 

Cristobal Alonso, Global CEO at Startup Wise Guys comments on the launch of the enterprise’s programmes in Africa.

“The pandemic forced us to go digital with our programmes and we saw an incredible number of African startups interested in joining our programs remotely. Africa had been on our radar for some time, but distance and logistics made it difficult. Alongside our partners, we are now able to offer on-the-ground startup acceleration, supported and led through digital platforms. Our focus is on African countries where our capacity-building expertise for early-stage startups will make the biggest impact.” 

Startup Wise Guys Accelerator Programme

The accelerator is reportedly Nambia’s first experience with an international startup accelerator and aims to bolster entrepreneurship in the African country. 

Kirstin Wiedow, GFA Team Leader of StartUp Namibia explains why the programme was first launched in Namibia.

“Although Namibia has a small population and market, we have thriving neighbouring markets which make the country a perfect launchpad to iterate ideas and scale into new markets across Africa. We believe that Namibia can offer a unique environment and ecosystem, which is why it is so crucial to build capacity with the support of the likes of Startup Wise Guys.”

Taking place over three months, the accelerator programme is currently supporting 24 local and selected startup founders. The accelerator places a strong focus on raising investment and the fundamentals of leading a venture-backed business.

In addition, the accelerator is equipped with a range of experts in fundraising, sales, product development, finance, legal matters, and marketing. These experts will share valuable insight with the selected participants empowering them to take their business to the next level.

Participants in the accelerator were chosen based on innovation, market size, growth potential, and skills demonstrated in previous local programmes. The majority of the participants are in the following areas; agritech, legal tech, and fintech.

Launched in 2020, Startup Namibia aims to grow the country’s startup ecosystem and has reportedly run several programmes since its inception.

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Featured image: Startup Wise Guys (Supplied)