TheCable

Global telecommunication company Microsoft has collaborated with Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) through its 4Afrika Initiative to provide entrepreneurs with technology-based tools, resources and mentorship.

Entrepreneurs under TEF will be trained on how to effectively use ICT to modernise their businesses, enrich their offerings as well as reach new customers.

In a statement, Akin Banuso, general manager, Microsoft Nigeria, said the two companies have a common goal of promoting entrepreneurship in Africa.

“Microsoft 4Afrika and the Tony Elumelu Foundation share a common goal to accelerate economic and social development by promoting entrepreneurship,” he said.

“As we enter into an era of digital transformation, it’s vital that we help all entrepreneurs develop relevant technology skills and integrate ICT into their businesses.

TEF- Shola Amusan, philanthropy & CSR lead, Microsoft Nigeria; Pelunmi Fadairo, director, group marketing and corporate communications, Heirs Holdings; Akin Banuso, GM Microsoft Nigeria; Ade Ajayi, CEO Tony Elumelu Foundation, Parminder Vir; Marketing and Operations Director Microsoft Nigeria  during an MOU signing between the Tony Elumelu Foundation and Microsoft to provide complimentary access to Microsoft’s business development software, Bizpark to 3,000 Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurs across 54 African countries

“Technology can help SMEs reach customers outside their local markets, generate powerful business insights and improve their customer retention. We have found that SMEs who adopt this kind of modern IT have seen 15% faster revenue growth than those not using it.”

The statement said the initiative would provide entrepreneurs with access to cloud-based software, online support and technology through BizSpark, access to information and markets through the Biz4Afrika platform, where SMEs can trade with similar-sized organisations.

“Online business and technology training through the Microsoft Virtual Academy, to support entrepreneurs through their start-up, growth and acceleration phases,” it read.

“Access to Microsoft experts for virtual and in-person mentorship through the MySkills4Afrika programme as well as access to the Interns4Afrika programme.”

Parminder Vir OBE, TEF chief executive officer, said the foundation provides 1,000 entrepreneurs with business training, mentoring and access to seed capital funding annually.

“Through this partnership, we are supporting each other’s mission to enable Africa’s entrepreneurs to drive their businesses forward,” he said.