Mr. Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, Executive Director of Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC), stated at the launch of the KIC Business Booster Programme at the African Regent Hotel on May 5, 2022, that KIC was founded six years ago with the goal of empowering young entrepreneurs and turning young graduates into entrepreneurs who would create jobs rather than seek jobs.
He went on to say that the initiative has helped existing firms develop faster. “This vision began as a social investment program, but six years later, it has impacted 9 SMEs and 600 young entrepreneurs in the agribusiness value chain, and we have assisted in the creation of over 52 startups, 24 of which have received funding from KIC and partners ranging from $10,000 to $50,000” he said.
Over 100,000 farmers have been influenced by these startups across the country. “We at KIC are delighted to work with businesses and entrepreneurs to create something innovative that will have an impact on the space and our economy.”
He added that KIC is thrilled to have a partner who is dedicated to advancing the program. The Mastercard Foundation partnership will help us partner with 16 universities around the country over the next four years, expanding our influence to young students.
Between now and 2025, we expect the Business Booster to have an impact on 900 SMEs. Looking at today’s global economy, the problems and uncertainty we face inspire us to work for sustainability and job creation.
Mr Philip Ayivor, KIC Board Member, Mr Joel Nettey, Mr Ato Brown, Mr Kwesi Korboe, MD GIRSAL, Dr John Asafu-Adjaye, Senior Fellow ACET, and partners present spoke on the panel and at the launch.