BDIH opens access to potential investors
Botswana Digital and Innovation Hub (BDIH), in partnership with Angel Network Botswana (ANB), opened up global market opportunities to local entrepreneurs by giving them access to potential investors.
Three local companies, including Nubian Seed, which is a green beauty formulator and supplier of natural and organic skin/hair care products made using raw plantbased ingredients and Keakopa Explore which is an advertising company that provides online business listing through a web portal linking businesses to markets. Deal day is a platform for BDIH innovators to pitch their businesses to potential investors. This is part of their incubation process as they aim to commercialize and build sustainable businesses. BDIH Chief Executive Officer, Tshepo Tsheko said they have seen this partnership flourish, particularly in favour of the emerging businesses that are part of BDIH accelerator programme.
“Last year, eight businesses presented themselves, showcasing the value that their businesses could bring both to investors and the market. We are excited to see what other innovations will receive support from the Angel Investor network, locally and globally.”
Angel Network Botswana Chairperson, Mythri SambasivanGeorge said investors in the Network adopt a hands-on approach with the start-ups because the network understands that these businesses require diversified support in terms of resources, expertise and business guidance. “It is not only fund-related but also giving the business access to sales value chains and the tools to scale and become high-value, sustainable companies.”
Angel Network Botswana continues to grow its support to BDIH innovators, through funding efforts and business mentorship offered to the start-ups. Since inception, Angel Network Botswana members have funded two start-ups who are BDIH alumni; Vantage Properties and Organic Naturals Skincare. The Network continues to mentor BDIH clientele in an effort to see high potential and grow locally-bred companies into global disruptors and competitors.