By Chinenye Anuforo
StartupSouth, the leading technology and business innovation conference in the South-South and South-East regions, has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation and driving economic growth in these areas.
The ninth annual conference, set to take place on October 3 and 4, 2024, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, will feature a diverse range of speakers, sessions and networking opportunities designed to inspire and empower entrepreneurs.
“Our mission has always been to create a platform that connects founders, policymakers, and investors, and we are excited to continue this work at #StartupSouth9,” said Uche Aniche, Convener and Cofounder of #StartupSouth. “This year’s theme, ‘Deep & Broad: Extending Frontiers of Technology and Economic Development,’ reflects our dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and creating a more prosperous future for the region”, he said.
Aniche noted that, the event promises to be the largest and most impactful edition, showcasing the latest trends in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship across Africa and the region in particular.
“#StartupSouth started in 2015 as an ambitious initiative with the goal of inspiring and enabling the next generation of dexterous founders and innovators. Today, nine years later, I am proud to say that we have grown into the foremost community of founders, policy makers and investors as well as a premier platform for technology, business innovation, and networking through our events and programming. We have not only expanded in terms of scale and reach but also in the impact we have made on Nigeria’s startup ecosystem”.
This year’s Conference is designed to offer a rich and immersive experience for participants with over 50+ sessions, 70+ Speakers in 6 Tracks. The tracks cover areas like Policy Innovation, Technology & Business Innovation, EdTech and Talent Development, Climate Resilience, Creative Economy and Creative Enterprise Support.
The annual Startup Awards has also received a refresh in format as well as the introduction of new Categories – particularly the Most Innovative Public Institution and Leader – both of which will spotlight outstanding public servants
and institutions leveraging technology to drive public good. The Startup Awards ceremony, scheduled for October 4, 2024 is one of the most anticipated parts of the event.
Other key features of #StartupSouth9 includes: Networking opportunities with investors, founders, talents, and executives from across the globe.
The unveiling of the Ecosystem Mapping Report, which will provide insights into key players, sectors, and trends within the South-South and South-East startup ecosystem. Unveiling of South-South-East Angel Network (SSEAN) Impact Report. $RWA Hackathon – that will give $4000+ in Prizes to participants plus the opportunity of upto $1Million in investment for the Winner and female focused Founders investment conversation and pitch session by Rising Tide
Africa and EHA Impact Ventures.
“As we continue to grow, we welcome more partners and collaborators to join us in amplifying the success stories emerging from the South-South and South-East regions. Together, we can
create a thriving ecosystem that nurtures innovation and entrepreneurship, driving sustainable development and long-term prosperity.
Tickets for #StartupSouth9 is currently on sale, with options for individual and team passes”, Aniche said.