Start & Grow

The AboCoders Start and Grow Initiative ran from June 2023 to January 2024. It was an extension of the AboCoders project, which aimed to empower young women from low-income communities in Nigeria with technological skills to create sustainable livelihoods for themselves and contribute to the development of their community. The Start and Grow project, which was sponsored by ACT Foundation, focused on building and supporting the ideas of young women in tech to create solution-driven, scalable tech businesses

Project Background

The initiative was designed to reach over 200 young women, offering them intensive training in critical areas like entrepreneurship and business management. This comprehensive program equipped them with the essential skills to:

  • Ideate and develop innovative tech solutions: Participants learned to identify problems within their communities and translate them into potential tech-driven solutions.
  • Launch and manage their own businesses: The program provided practical training in business planning, marketing, and financial management, empowering them to turn their ideas into reality.
  • Build sustainable livelihoods: By equipping them with the tools for success, the initiative paved the way for these young women to achieve financial independence and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

     


Project Impact

The impact of Start and Grow is evident in the remarkable achievement of launching 10 tech startups led by program participants. These startups represent a diverse range of innovative solutions, addressing challenges and creating opportunities within Nigeria’s tech landscape. This success story serves as a testament to the initiative’s ability to:

  • Cultivate a new generation of female tech leaders: By providing mentorship, funding, and support throughout the development process, Start and Grow nurtured a generation of empowered women ready to lead the way in the tech industry.
  • Fuel innovation and growth in the Nigerian tech sector: The program fostered a culture of innovation by providing a platform for young women to translate their ideas into tangible solutions. This not only benefits the participants but also contributes to the overall development and growth of the Nigerian tech ecosystem.

The AboCoders Start and Grow Initiative’s impact extends far beyond the number of beneficiaries and startups launched. It signifies a critical step towards promoting gender equality within the tech industry and fostering a more inclusive and innovative future. By empowering young women to become tech leaders and entrepreneurs, the program has the potential to create a ripple effect, inspiring future generations and contributing to the social and economic development of Nigeria as a whole.

Beneficiary Testimonials

Somi Tamunosele Fredrick

I am incredibly grateful to Aspilos and ACT Foundation for the Start and Grow training program. The journey began with comprehensive tech skills training, opening my eyes to vast opportunities. The standout aspect was the entrepreneurial focus, helping us develop tech-based business ideas, craft proposals, and pitch to investors. As someone aspiring to secure grants, the program’s free training was invaluable.

Start and Grow Beneficiary

Adeosun Bolanle

The Start and Grow journey has been both interesting and educational. Collaborating with brilliant minds to develop a tech product was an enriching experience. I am deeply grateful to Aspilos and ACT Foundation for this opportunity, which we do not take for granted. A heartfelt thank you also goes to our facilitators and their team for their guidance and support throughout the program.

Start and Grow Beneficiary

Somi Tamunosele Fredrick

I am incredibly grateful to Aspilos and ACT Foundation for the Start and Grow training program. The journey began with comprehensive tech skills training, opening my eyes to vast opportunities. The standout aspect was the entrepreneurial focus, helping us develop tech-based business ideas, craft proposals, and pitch to investors. As someone aspiring to secure grants, the program’s free training was invaluable.

Start and Grow Beneficiary
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