Osogbo, Osun State – Monday, 25th November 2024
The Osun State Government has made two groundbreaking announcements to reaffirm its dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. These initiatives were unveiled during a Fireside Chat event held on Wednesday, 20th November 2024, featuring Hon. Azeez Badmus, Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy, and Hon. Adeyemi Adewumi, Chairman of the House Committee on Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy.
The event was facilitated by Mr. Jude Feranmi, who has been instrumental in driving engagement with the technology ecosystem and fostering meaningful connections between the government and tech stakeholders.
The announcements have been lauded by the tech community as transformative steps towards positioning Osun State as a leading hub for innovation in Nigeria.
Startup Fund Initiative
Hon. Azeez Badmus revealed that the 2025 state budget includes a dedicated fund to support selected startups in Osun State. This pilot initiative will focus on supporting a few startups building from Osun State, starting next year. Insights gained from the pilot will inform how the government structures its future engagements and support mechanisms for startups. Insights gained from the pilot will inform how the government structures its future engagements and support mechanisms for startups. The initiative aims to:
- Provide financial backing to innovative startups with high growth potential.
- Foster partnerships with private organizations to ensure effective and impactful implementation.
Details regarding the eligibility criteria and application process for accessing the fund will be made available through an official announcement in the coming weeks
International Sponsorships for Tech Startups
In addition to the funding initiative, Hon. Badmus announced plans to sponsor selected startups from Osun State to participate in international tech events in Canada and South Africa in 2025. This sponsorship program seeks to:
- Showcase Osun-based startups on the global stage, enabling them to pitch their solutions to international audiences.
- Facilitate collaborations with global technology players and investors.
- Highlight the innovative potential of startups emerging from Osun State.
Hon. Badmus emphasized that these international sponsorships are part of the government’s broader strategy to bolster the digital economy, promote local innovation, and secure global recognition for Osun’s growing tech ecosystem.
Startup Bill for Osun State
Hon. Adeyemi Adewumi further reinforced the state’s commitment by announcing the expedited passage of the Startup Bill within the next month. This legislative framework is set to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurship and innovation, laying the groundwork for a sustainable and thriving startup ecosystem in Osun State.
Engaging the Tech Ecosystem
The Fireside Chat, hosted by the Founders’ Hub, provided a platform for meaningful dialogue between government officials, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in the tech sector. Facilitated by Mr. Jude Feranmi, the event highlighted challenges, opportunities, and the government’s ongoing efforts to support digital transformation and innovation within the state.
About Osun State’s Digital Economy Vision
These announcements are part of the Osun State Government’s vision to drive economic growth through strategic investments in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. By creating an ecosystem that nurtures startups and facilitates global exposure, the government aims to position Osun State as a beacon of innovation in Nigeria and beyond.
For media inquiries, please contact: [Contact Information]
