MTN Nigeria has launched a program titled “From Africa, for Africa.”
This 12-week program will open for applications in September.
The program, open to various startups, has a total budget of 100 million naira (approximately $65,200).
WHICH SECTORS WILL BE SUPPORTED?
The program will support startups in sectors such as fintech, agritech, health, education, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Participating startups will receive financial support, mentorship, access to MTN’s technological infrastructure, and connections to a network of investors.
MTN’S PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: 3MTT PROGRAM
MTN Nigeria previously launched a similar initiative with the Nigerian government called “3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT),” contributing 3 billion naira to the program.
Thanks to this effort, around 90,000 Nigerians received training in digital skills.
HYBRID TRAINING AND MENTORSHIP MODEL
In this new program, in-person sessions will be held in Lagos alongside virtual workshops.
The opening and closing events will take place physically, while the interim weeks will focus on online product design sprints and one-on-one mentorship sessions.
KEY FACTORS FOR SUCCESS
The success of the program will depend on the diversity of the selected startups and their potential to create sustainable employment, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
To enhance its impact, the program must align with and support public education and employment policies.
CONTRIBUTION TO DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
In addition, the program’s outcomes must be regularly monitored and updated as needed.
Through this and similar initiatives, Africa will take a significant step forward in its digital transformation journey.