Eleanor Azar, Chief of Staff at Telecel Group and overseer of the company’s Africa Start-up Initiative Program (ASIP), has called for greater investment and consultative support to bolster Ghana’s emerging tech start-up ecosystem.
Speaking at the opening of the Tech in Ghana Conference, Azar shared insights on ASIP, a corporate social responsibility initiative designed to accelerate the growth of high-potential tech startups across Africa. The conference, which took place at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, aimed to highlight Ghana’s growing talent in technology and innovation.
Azar emphasized the significant strides made by ASIP over the past four years, providing funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help tech startups thrive, particularly in underserved markets such as Ghana. She acknowledged the immense talent and potential within Ghana’s start-up space, noting that 40 startups have been supported through ASIP’s four cohorts.
“However, startups still face barriers, including limited access to capital and strategic guidance to scale and navigate market challenges. These gaps are critical and must be addressed to unlock the full potential of these ventures,” Azar stated.
The Tech in Ghana Conference, held under the theme “Security, Synergy, and Storytelling,” brought together entrepreneurs, investors, tech leaders, diplomats, and policymakers to discuss the future of digital innovation in Africa. The event featured panels, presentations, showcases, and breakout sessions on a variety of topics impacting the tech industry.
Since its launch in 2019, ASIP has supported a diverse group of startups with over $750,000 in total benefits, including access to a global network of more than 3,000 mentors. The program has supported over 4,000 jobs, with 70% of the beneficiary startups being women-led.
Azar urged greater collaboration between governments, investors, and corporate entities to nurture African startups and create a conducive environment for innovation. “Sustainable collaboration between the private sector, government, and international partners is essential to creating a supportive ecosystem where startups can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” she said.
The conference also featured startup founders from ASIP, such as Motito and BD Waste, who shared their experiences on panels and at the exhibition booths. eCampus, another ASIP alumnus and a sponsor of the event, showcased their contributions to Africa’s education sector.
Telecel Group’s ASIP program aims to continue expanding its support for African startups, providing them with access to local and international investors, mentorship, and capacity-building programs to help them scale globally.
Azar concluded by highlighting ASIP’s successes and reaffirming the program’s commitment to making a bigger impact in Ghana’s rapidly growing tech ecosystem.
