Microsoft, through its 4Afrika Initiative, has collaborated with the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) to provide entrepreneurs in the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme with technology-based tools, resources and mentorship.
Through this support – which will benefit TEF entrepreneurs across the continent – the 4Afrika Initiative and TEF will help entrepreneurs effectively use ICT to modernise their businesses, enrich their offerings and reach new customers.
“Microsoft 4Afrika and the Tony Elumelu Foundation share a common goal to accelerate economic and social development by promoting entrepreneurship,” said Akin Banuso, general manager of Microsoft Nigeria.
“As we enter into an era of digital transformation, it’s vital that we help all entrepreneurs develop relevant technology skills and integrate ICT into their businesses. Technology can help SMEs reach customers outside their local markets, generate powerful business insights and improve their customer retention. We have found that SMEs who adopt this kind of modern IT have seen 15 per cent faster revenue growth than those not using it.”
Microsoft 4Afrika will provide TEF entrepreneurs with access to cloud-based software, online support and technology through BizSpark, information and markets through the Biz4Afrika platform, technical training on Microsoft technologies and platforms, online business and technology training through the Microsoft Virtual Academy, access to Microsoft experts, and access to the Interns4Afrika programme.
“Every year, the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme provides 1,000 entrepreneurs with business training, mentoring, access to seed capital funding and membership into the TEF Africa-wide Network,” said Parminder Vir, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
“With Microsoft on-board, we’re adding an essential ICT platform and partner to this mix, which will help to strengthen the capacity of our entrepreneurs – ensuring they remain relevant and competitive.”
In addition, Microsoft will also identify high potential entrepreneurs from the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme and integrate them into its Innovation Grant Programme.
