Latest news with #entrepreneurship
Al-Ahram Weekly
35 minutes ago
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
The First of its Kind Collaboration with Imperial College London in the Region - Economy
Ushering through a strategic partnership to drive global sustainability solutions, Mentors Gate Development, a leading consultancy group working on SME and innovative entrepreneurship development across Africa and the Middle East, have joined hands with Imperial College London (ICL), ranked 1st in the UK and Europe; 2nd in the world in QS World University Rankings 2025, to officially launch a groundbreaking Industrial Wastewater Treatment Program, powered by ICL's WICKED Acceleration Labs, marking a critical step in advancing Egypt's environmental, industrial and economic goals. The initiative, unveiled during a high-level event in Cairo, aims to accelerate innovative, scalable solutions for industrial water treatment, aligning with Egypt's Vision 2030, UN Sustainable Development Goals, as well as the ongoing efforts for increased partnerships with the UK and EU countries towards creating viable opportunities for economic development in Egypt and the region. At the heart of this program is a commitment to driving real-world, sustainable impact. Industrial wastewater treatment has emerged as a global and national priority, with challenges pertaining to cost, infrastructure, regulations. The initiative targets not only technical innovation but also practical deployment, ecosystem engagement, and investment readiness. The launch event brought together a distinguished group of speakers on top of whom was Cristobal Garcia, Co-Founder of Wicked Acceleration Labs, Bassel Rahmy, MSMEDA Executive Director, Ambassador Magdy Amer, Former Egyptian Ambassador to China, FAO Communications Expert Rawya El Dabi, and ILO Project Manager Martin Ostenmeier. Respected guests included representatives of the UK Embassy in Egypt, the EU, as well as representatives from the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI), government entities, research institutions, and private sector leaders. Some of Mentors' Gates strategic partners have also joined the launch, most notably Orange Digital Center and Track 3 Consulting. Key highlights of the multi-day launch-visit included site tours in Alexandria's industrial zones, discussions at the City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, and workshops that fostered dialogue between major players in Egypt's innovation ecosystem and lab representatives. Wicked Acceleration Labs Co-Founder & Faculty at IMPERIAL Business School, Dr. Cristobal Garcia-Herrera said that "This collaboration represents the essence of what Wicked Acceleration Labs were created to do—connect top-tier research institutions with on-the-ground 'wicked' and complex challenges in emerging economies, to drive effective solutions by envisioning desirable futures and orchestrating stakeholders. It is also of additional value to carry out this initiative in Egypt, where a spirit of advancement, collaboration and innovation is clearly sensed, and we plan to take this partnership with our partner-elect, Mentors' Gate, as a launching point to forge new, pioneering partnerships in the Middle East". Meanwhile, Dr. Mohamed El-Sery, Founder and CEO of Mentors' Gate Development, clarified that "Egypt is at a pivotal moment, and we believe this program can catalyze long-term change by merging innovation with industrial and environmental imperatives. It is a first of its kind initiative in the region, with one of the world's topmost academic entities on board, and it is an invaluable opportunity to move forward Egypt's sustainability plans". This program builds on the success of the Wicked Accelerator's previous global efforts, most notably with Imperial College London's Zikomo Initiative in Zambia - where Mentors' Gate played a key a role in the initiative - significantly reducing milk spoilage through solar refrigeration technology and increasing farmers' profit by 30-60%. The Egypt edition of Wicked Acceleration Labs seeks to replicate such impact by tackling Egypt's most pressing challenges and capitalize on increased call for sustainable, safety-ensuring and efficient practices, particularly as it comes on the heels of the UK and Egypt's announcement of a pledged $500 M fund towards Egypt's 'green growth' and decarbonization, Mentors Gate, the lead organizer and sponsor of the initiative in Egypt, is a global force in SME acceleration and entrepreneurship. With operations in 41 countries and a robust network of over 47,000 trainees and 12,750 business clients, the organization is well-positioned to empower startups and scale-ups working on sustainable industrial solutions. Their initiatives and projects focus on addressing sustainability, and food-nexus challenges including decarbonization and innovation development. For more information, visit: | Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Zawya
an hour ago
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa: MTN launches Youth Hustle Hub 2025 with $55,428 prize pool
MTN South Africa has launched the 2025 edition of its Pulse Youth Hustle Hub, offering entrepreneurs aged 18–25 the chance to win a share of R1m in funding. The initiative is designed to support early-stage businesses through access to funding, mentorship and business development. Thirty young entrepreneurs will be selected to participate. Of these, 29 will each receive R30,000 in funding. One overall winner will receive R100,000 to grow their business. The remaining R30,000 from the total prize pool will be allocated as spot prizes. To enter, participants must upload a 60-second video pitching their business idea on social media, tagging @MTNza and using the hashtags #MTNPulse and #MTNYouthHustleHub2025. Incubator programme The top 30 entrepreneurs will be hosted in Johannesburg for a week-long incubation programme, which includes: - Mentorship from business experts - Business analysis sessions - Pitch training - A final pitch event to select the overall winner According to MTN, the programme will also offer broader value beyond the finalists. Public-facing resources such as entrepreneurial podcasts and webinars will be made available online to help young South Africans sharpen their business skills. Building on 2024 outcomes The campaign follows the success of the 2024 edition, where winners used their prize money to expand their businesses. MTN says the new campaign aligns with its broader brand positioning and aims to foster a spirit of initiative among youth. 'We've seen the impact last year's programme had on young business owners like Thokozani Sibeko, who used his winnings to expand his bakery. Hustle Hub is not just a competition — it's about enabling long-term growth,' said Seun Soladoye, GM for Consumer Prepaid at MTN SA. The 2025 programme also draws on creative input from past winners and young content creators, as part of a wider effort to reinvest in youth-led innovation. All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
an hour ago
- Business
- Zawya
Edge Growth's first Investee Day marks new chapter in supporting and scaling South African SMEs
Small business development specialist, Edge Growth, hosted their first ever Investee Day on 4 June in Johannesburg. Invitations were extended to small businesses that have been part of the Edge Growth ecosystem and investment portfolio through various funding and mentorship platforms, with guests having the opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts on the essential strategies for scaling a business. Attendees were treated to a wealth of real-life business lessons and expert insights, designed to equip them for the next phase of their growth journey. In addition to the educational content, the event offered powerful networking opportunities, allowing business owners to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another in a supportive and growth-focused environment. 'Edge Growth is not just about capital – it's about impact, resilience, and transformation," says Daniel Hatfield, CEO of Edge Growth who facilitated the event. 'We're 'VC with a twist,' dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs to create systemic change and drive inclusive growth.' He described the evolution of Edge Growth over the last 20 years – from a bold idea focused on growing SMEs and creating jobs, to becoming one of Africa's leading impact investors. 'Beyond accolades and scale, the true value lies in driving inclusive growth and empowering entrepreneurs to create systemic change." The event featured a compelling keynote address by Miles Kubheka, a renowned entrepreneur, dynamic speaker, author and chef who brought fresh perspective and inspiration to guests. Kubheka made a successful shift from a career in IT to establishing himself as a leading figure in the food industry, demonstrating the impact of vision and determination. Renowned entrepreneur, dynamic speaker, author and chef, Miles Kubheka Keshav Mohabir, founder of and chief of staff at Art of Scale, delivered a practical lesson with practical insights about harnessing AI and technology to boost efficiency and productivity. With a background spanning social entrepreneurship, technical architecture, and strategic consulting, Mohabir brought to the event his unique blend of creativity and technical expertise, highlighting how smart tech adoption can drive tangible business growth. Another really valuable lesson was delivered by Kekeletso Moloto from Jedi Marketing, who shared transformative marketing and sales insights, offering practical strategies for building a strong brand through clear and consistent communication. Another highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring Mohabir and Moloto, alongside Ndia Magadagela, CEO and co-founder of Everlectric, a trailblazer in electric vehicle leasing. Nevenka Naidoo from DKN Transport, a logistics company specialising in road freight and cross-border services across multiple industries and Dr Thomas Brennan were also on the panel. Brennan is the co-founder of South African fintech startup Franc, known for its user-friendly app that makes investing in money market and equity funds accessible to everyone, with no minimum investment required. Everlectric, DKN Transport and Franc themselves are all SMEs that have benefited from Edge Growth managed funding. This panel discussion delved into the major challenges and strategies faced by entrepreneurs, focusing particularly on mindset, business scaling, and the role of technology. SME owners shared personal experiences to highlight the critical importance of resilience and a persistent mindset, stressing that co-founders, team members, coaches, and mentors are among the most valuable assets, alongside tech tools and targeted learning opportunities. When asked about the mindset needed as an entrepreneur, Magadagela said that having a mindset of always wanting to learn and being willing to hear and 'listen with your eyes' is vital. "As a CEO, you're the chief optimism officer – you need the resilience to fall 17 times and get up 18, and the mindset to always keep learning and listening,' she says. "My biggest personal sacrifice has been time with family, which is why we've intentionally kept the business at a manageable scale to maintain some balance in our lives,' is how Naidoo responded to a question about some of the personal sacrifices' entrepreneurs have to make. Referring to her biggest learning so far, Moloto says that one of the things you quickly realise in business, especially as a solo founder, is that there are many skills you lack. "You can't do everything, and I've had to build skills I lacked, especially around operations, and learn to rely on a team. It's been the hardest but biggest personal development journey." Brennan agreed and emphasised the importance of knowing your strengths. 'You can't be expected to be an expert in everything. I'm an engineer, I teamed up with an actuary, and we have very different strengths that complement each other well." This inaugural cross-fund Investee Day marks a significant milestone in Edge Growth's commitment to empowering the diverse small businesses within their investment portfolio across all managed funds. Under the Edge Growth Ventures umbrella, one of South Africa's most prominent SME fund managers with over R2bn in assets under management, this event draws inspiration from practices common in the Venture Capital sector and has created a platform that fosters collaboration, growth, and shared learning. In closing, chief executive officer of Edge Growth Ventures, Janice Johnson reflected on the purpose and impact of the event, emphasising the company's ongoing commitment to backing resilient teams, strong ideas, and entrepreneurs who share a vision for meaningful impact. 'Our goal was to create meaningful, unstructured opportunities for connection, learning, and inspiration, and this first Investee Day truly exceeded expectations. It sparked deep conversations, honest storytelling, and the beginning of a strong community. We're committed to keeping this momentum going and look forward to making this an annual event that continues to support and grow South Africa's SME ecosystem,' Johnson says. Edge Growth is a leading SME and Venture Fund manager, specialising in developing small businesses and creating jobs and real transformation by connecting corporates and entrepreneurs, growing SMEs by addressing their key constraints: access to finance, markets and skills. Our offering consists of three services areas, designed to achieve maximum impact: - ESD Strategy for corporates & building SMEs in their value chain - Investing in and growing SMEs through fund management - Scaling businesses to full potential through accelerator programmes All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Five Networking Groups Every Small Business Owner Should Consider in 2025
When a Sydney tech founder's payment infrastructure imploded faster than a social media trend due to a high dispute rate, she didn't panic-search 'crisis management consultants' or spiral into a doom-scroll. She tapped her Entrepreneurs' Organisation Forum, and was introduced to the right person with the right authority at her faceless payment provider company faster than you could say 'online meeting.' Forty-eight hours later, her crisis was ancient history; a testament to EO's on-demand lifeline for founders. Welcome to the age of strategic solitude-busting, where 45% of entrepreneurs report stress levels that make Wall Street traders look zen, and isolation has become as common as AI-generated headshots. With business failures hitting record highs (November 2024 saw 1,442 Australian companies flatline, the worst month in recorded history), the question isn't whether entrepreneurs need peer support, but whether they can afford to network with anything less than the A-list. The Loneliness Epidemic Recent sentiment analyses of thousands of online forums reveal founders oscillating between existential dread and Navy SEAL–level coping strategies. Yet 70% of new business opportunities still emerge from networking, making isolation not just emotionally devastating but financially suicidal. The stats paint a picture grimmer than a Succession season finale. Half of CEOs feel lonelier than a crypto evangelist at a climate summit, while 82% of entrepreneurs deem mentorship as essential as wifi. The remedy? Five networking powerhouses that have turned peer support from transactional glad-handing into transformational strategy. 1. Entrepreneurs' Organisation: The Led Zeppelin of Business Networks With nearly 20,000 members across 220 chapters, including 17 across Asia Pacific, EO has achieved global relevance without sacrificing intimate authenticity. This year's Global Leadership Conference in Hawaii drew 1,600 entrepreneurs from 60 countries, featuring globally-recognised luminaries from Deepak Chopra to Marcus Lemonis, making Davos look quaint. EO's signature Forums unite 8–12 founders monthly under stricter confidentiality than a Supreme Court leak investigation. 'In EO, you learn to ask the tough questions and listen for your own answers,' explains EO's Asia Pacific Chair, sounding more like she's describing enlightenment than networking. Beyond peer counsel, EO's partnerships with Harvard, MIT, and Bond University offer executive education that costs less than YPO's dues while delivering Ivy League credentials. Its upcoming 'EO Fun Japan 2025' in Osaka will coincide with the World Expo, proving that even global learning can be Instagram-worthy. 2. Young Presidents' Organisation: An Exclusive Club with an Expiration Date YPO operates like a velvet-rope nightclub, where the bouncer checks your P&L instead of your ID. With CEOs and Executives who must be under 45 prior to joining and represent companies generating $15 million or more annually, it's the ultimate achievement badge for overachievers. YPO's EDGE conference in Barcelona attracted 2,200 leaders to dissect fractured geopolitics, essential for CEOs managing complex supply chains. But YPO's age gate sparks expiration-date anxiety that makes midlife crises look cheerful. Members face an awkward transition to 'Gold' status at 46, trimming benefits and sparking membership whiplash. Its annual dues surpass EO, and with the age limit firmly in place, membership is tantamount to leasing a mega-bucks super car with a 10,000-kilometre cap. 3. Club of United Business: Australia's Soho House for Startups When Daniel Hakim launched CUB at 23, he blended festival cool with Gold Coast glamour, complete with marble baristas and luxury locker rooms. Nine years later, his empire boasts 23,000 members across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with clubhouse openings timed to major international events. 'It's not your father's golf club,' Hakim has said previously, offering concierge-level networking for $9,900 AUD a year. But without EO's global lattice or YPO's legacy planning, CUB can feel like a luxury boutique, irresistible within Australia but limited for founders eyeing international scale. 4. Business Network International: An Impressive Network BNI has engineered networking into a super clever algorithm. Its 330,000+ members across 11,200 chapters generated $25.2 billion in member-to-member referrals in 2024, under a 'one profession per chapter' rule stricter than Olympic doping tests. Weekly meetings run like accountability boot camps, best for service-based entrepreneurs craving instant ROI rather than transformational growth. At about $2,500 USD annually, BNI delivers transactional networking with measurable dividends, but its transactional zeal can leave growth-hungry founders wanting deeper counsel. 5. The Executive Centre: Workspace with Serendipity on Tap TEC offers premium coworking from $400 USD per month, spanning 150+ global locations from Singapore to London. Its harbour-view lounges and barista-grade coffee foster chance encounters that can spark partnerships, but without curated peer forums or confidentiality protocols, TEC remains a workspace theatre, not a true advisory network. Robert How, TEC's Australia Country Director, touts double-digit revenue growth and expansion across financial districts. The Verdict: EO Reigns Supreme in 2025 In a world awash with AI-powered match-making apps and virtual business conferences, EO's decidedly human approach feels both revolutionary and timeless. While competitors focus on demographics, amenities, or referral volume, EO tackles the root cause of entrepreneurial failure (isolation) through confidential Forums that forge psychological safety nets stronger than any algorithm. It's not-for-profit structure channels every dollar back into member value instead of shareholder dividends, fostering peer environments where founders share vulnerabilities without commercial agendas. From Serengeti sunrise treks to Harvard case studies, EO blends professional rigour with personal renewal with a holistic model that others struggle to replicate. As entrepreneurs navigate AI disruption, supply-chain shocks, and global volatility, choosing the right network isn't about prestige or perks; it's about survival. EO's blend of global reach, founder-for-founder empathy, and transformational learning creates the lifeline that turns isolation into connection, one Forum at a time. In 2025, settling for anything less than EO isn't just short-sighted. It's entrepreneurial malpractice.
Bloomberg
2 hours ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
Silicon Valley ' s ‘ Tiny Team ' Era is Here
In the era of startup ' blitzscaling,' which lasted roughly from Facebook's IPO in 2012 until WeWork's bankruptcy filing in 2023, market capitalization and total capital raised were prized metrics. The ultimate milestone was reaching 'unicorn status' — a $1 billion valuation that was often accompanied by rapid hiring. These days, bragging rights are going to entrepreneurs who keep headcount the lowest.
