We are excited to announce the successful completion of the AfriConEU Bootcamp in Nigeria. We extend our sincere gratitude to the participating teams for sharing their innovative ideas, and we appreciate the mentors and partners for their crucial role in ensuring the Bootcamp’s resounding success. Your guidance, unwavering support, and infectious enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this remarkable journey.

Throughout the Bootcamp, we had the privilege of hosting:

• More than 80 participants eager to learn and make a positive impact.
• Seven facilitators who nurtured and guided the entrepreneurial spirit.
• Five inspirational speakers who shared their wisdom and insights.
• Four panelists who engaged in thought-provoking discussions.
• Multiple teams collaborating and pushing the boundaries of innovation.
• And, of course, three winners who showcased exceptional innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Bootcamp was an extraordinary experience that encompassed learning, networking, design thinking, inspirational speeches, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It served as a true celebration of African talent and the power of collaboration!

Here are the key highlights from the Bootcamp:

Day 1: Ideation

On the first day, participants delved into the exciting realm of ideation. Through interactive sessions and group activities, they explored personal and team objectives, identified areas of expertise, and mapped out the challenges or issues they aimed to address. Guided by facilitators, they generated innovative project ideas and refined them using ideation techniques like brainstorming and the World Café method, laying the foundation for their project development.

Day 2: Consolidation

The second day was dedicated to consolidating project ideas and creating comprehensive plans. Participants received valuable insights into European angel investment and how it can benefit African startups. With the guidance of facilitators, they refined project concepts, conducted ideation synthesis, and defined project scopes and objectives. Utilizing tools such as clustering, dot voting, and ideation matrices, they further honed their ideas and developed robust project frameworks in preparation for the next stage of the Bootcamp.

Day 3: Presentation

On the final day, participants presented their projects to real users and potential investors. They pitched their ideas and showcased prototypes or mock-ups developed during the Bootcamp. Employing a hybrid format that combined in-person and virtual interactions, they received valuable feedback and insights from the audience. This day was dedicated to refining presentation skills, gaining exposure, and maximizing the chances of attracting interest and support for their projects.

Throughout the Bootcamp, attendees had the opportunity to participate in networking sessions, interviews, and interactions with fellow participants, mentors, and industry experts. They also benefited from inspirational speeches and workshops, laying the foundation for a transformative learning experience.

By the conclusion of the Bootcamp, participants had acquired valuable knowledge, refined their project ideas, expanded their professional networks, and equipped themselves with the tools and confidence needed to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations. The AfriConEU Bootcamp in Nigeria served as a testament to Africa’s innovation, talent, and collaborative spirit. We eagerly anticipate witnessing the continued growth and impact of the ideas that have emerged from this transformative event.