What is Launchpad Africa?

Launchpad Africa is a new (currently offline) networking platform for connecting professionals in the Diaspora (currently the UK) that have an interest in innovation, entrepreneurship and business in Africa.

Who is it aimed at?

Launchpad Africa is aimed at professionals that have an interest in using innovation, entrepreneurship and business to move Africa forward.  We want to help facilitate entrepreneurship skills/acumen for professionals doing business or wanting to do business in Africa. 

What is the purpose and programme of this event?

This is the ‘take-off’ ;-) event for Launchpad Africa.  Apart from getting to meet likeminded professionals in a social setting, it is a chance to practice sharing succinct summaries of ideas.

The evening will be made up of:

General networking - Come along and introduce yourself to others.

Speed pitching - Take 30 seconds to give an overview of a potential or actual business idea or opportunity you have in the African space.  It can be in any business sector from agriculture to IT.

Speed networking - Take part in a facilitated networking session, where you have 2-3 minute to talk to another attendee.

General discussion - Share thoughts with the organisers and other attendees, as to what you want to get from Launchpad Africa going forward.

The night will be hosted by Nii Simmonds (a Washington-based advisor/lecturer of sustainable entrepreneurship, Co-founder of Afrobotics, and blogger on African entrepreneurship/innovation in Africa) and Richard Tandoh (a London-based business developer, IT professional and event coordinator).