A total of 42 entrepreneurs celebrated their graduation from the SME Accelerator Program, a six-month initiative to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). The program, a collaboration between Adanian Labs and Ayoba, was designed to equip SMEs with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Killian Mayua, the Regional Head of West Africa at Adanian Labs, announced the successful completion of the program during the Ayoba SME Accelerator, Nigeria 2023, exhibition, graduation, and awards ceremony held in Lagos over the weekend. Mayua highlighted the comprehensive training program, which included interactive workshops, hands-on tutorials, and personalized coaching sessions tailored to the unique business needs of each participant.
Participants were immersed in a dynamic learning environment where they gained invaluable insights into the diverse applications of AI tools across various operational domains. From streamlining inventory management to enhancing customer engagement strategies, SME owners and employees acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to harness AI technologies effectively.
Mayua emphasized the challenges faced by startups in Nigeria and commended the participants for their dedication to the program. He noted that over 1,000 SMEs applied for the program, but only 50 were shortlisted, with 42 ultimately graduating after rigorous training in technology, customer relations, bookkeeping, and other essential areas.
The program received support from various organizations, including the United States Consulate in Nigeria, MTN, and Fidelity Bank. Sheila Yabo, Head of Ecosystem Development at Ayoba, highlighted the platform’s role in digitalizing Africa and enabling exponential growth for entrepreneurs.
Representatives from the U.S. Consulate emphasized the importance of startups as the lifeblood of a thriving economy, describing SMEs as job-creating machines with great growth potential. Participants, such as Ifeoma Anselem, founder of Rae’s Clothing, praised the program for its tailored approach and support in structuring businesses and accessing funding.
The Ayoba SME Accelerator program serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in driving economic growth and empowering entrepreneurs in Nigeria and across Africa.
