Africa Health Collaborative at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in partnership with Mastercard Foundation has announced a major boost to youth-led entrepreneurship with a seed funding package of up to US$150,000, aimed at accelerating innovative businesses with the potential to transform Africa.
Speaking at the funding and mentorship programme, Prof. Wilberforce Owusu-Ansah, Pillar Lead for the Health Entrepreneurship, explained that the funding model has been strategically redesigned to provide holistic support to beneficiaries.
“What we have to offer is a seed money of US$150,000. Unlike previous editions, the funding is structured into two parts one to support the day-to-day running of your business, and another component provided as a mentorship voucher,” he stated.
Professor Owusu-Ansah emphasized the confidence Africa Health Collaborative has in the participants, noting that they have demonstrated exceptional competence and leadership beyond expectations.
“We said from the beginning that we have absolute confidence in you, and you have proven beyond all imagination that you are not just competent, but also at the forefront of transforming Africa,” he said.
He assured participants that the programme operates an open and inclusive support system, stressing that entrepreneurs who do not receive immediate financial awards still have access to extensive wraparound services.
“Those who may not be awarded financially today should know that this is not the end of your journey. We operate a no closed-door policy, and there are several other support services you can continue to benefit from. This is only the beginning,” he added.
Professor Owusu-Ansah also urged beneficiaries to invest the funds responsibly to ensure long-term impact.
“Whatever amount you receive is not for fun. We want it invested diligently so that it becomes a catalyst that propels you into growth and stardom. We believe entrepreneurship not working for others is what creates lasting wealth, and that is why we are investing in you,” he noted.
As part of the broader support package, selected participants will benefit from co-incubation opportunities, both locally and internationally.
“Some of you will be incubated here in Ghana, while others will also receive mentorship and incubation support through our partners in Canada. This gives you access to global expertise and networks,” he explained.
Also speaking at the programme, the Provost of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Professor Charles Marfo, congratulated the participants and encouraged them to maximize the opportunity.
“I understand that only a few people will be going home with the US$150,000 today, and I wish you well if you happen to be among them,” he said.
Professor Marfo linked the initiative to Africa Health Collaborative’s broader vision of job creation across Africa.
“Africa Health Collaborative aims to create 30,000 jobs, and I sincerely hope that your enterprise will become one of those success stories,” he stated.
He further expressed the University’s interest in the long-term success of the beneficiaries.
“Whatever you do, we want to be associated with the brands you create. I would be honoured to be invited to the launch of your businesses,” he added.
By: Emmanuel Offei
