Accra: Dr Emmanuel Mumuni, the Component Manager of GIZ, has called on stakeholders to create more awareness about the different sources of funding for start-ups. He emphasized the importance of disseminating information on funding opportunities despite the various interventions from the government and other funding organizations to ensure that young entrepreneurs have improved access to these resources.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Mumuni was speaking at the NextGen Opportunities Forum 2025 in Accra. The event, themed 'Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future One Bold Step,' was organized by TalentsinAfrica and the People Initiative Foundation. This year's forum marked a decade of inspiring ideas through platforms such as TEDxLabone, TEDxAccra, and Africa Dialogues, focusing on the future of Africa's youth.
The forum was a convergence of young leaders, entrepreneurs, policy influencers, investors, creatives, and educators dedicated to unlocking transformative pathways across the continent. It featured over 40 speakers and panelists, including entrepreneurs, CEOs, policymakers, and innovators. The discussions spanned seven panels covering topics such as AI and Jobs, Women in Leadership, Startup Capital, Creative Economy, Legal Migration, and Purpose-Driven Branding. Additionally, the event included live performances, interactive exhibitions, and a curated youth opportunities expo.
Mr Mumuni highlighted the abundance of available funding opportunities but pointed out the lack of awareness among startups. He urged them to proactively seek these opportunities, as research indicates that many do not actively pursue funding. He stated, "Startups must be the initiators of reaching out to Administrators of funding opportunities."
Strategic Communications Expert at the AU Commission, Mr King David, also addressed the forum, encouraging young entrepreneurs to form strong alliances and collaborate to overcome funding challenges. He emphasized the importance of mutual support for business growth and development.
Emmanuel Leslie Addae, a Curator of the Forum and Founder of TalentsinAfrica, remarked on the forum's significance, stating, "From innovation to migration, AI to entrepreneurship, we are asking the bold questions and putting youth at the centre of the answers." He noted that the panels discussed topics such as Jobs and Skills and how African Startups Can Thrive Without Global Venture Capital, highlighting the forum's role as a platform to confront the challenges and possibilities facing young Africans.
Other discussions explored the impact of AI and Automation on job creation and the opportunities presented by legal migration. The forum was supported by a network of corporate, government, and development partners.
