Update

July – Welcome to H2

As we round up the first month of the second half of the year, July has brought renewed energy and focus for Startup Kano. This month has been packed with exciting and impactful activities, from dynamic workshops to meaningful community engagements, all aimed at fostering innovation, growth, and community development. Below is a roundup of the key events: USPF Workshop We kicked off the month with the USPF Workshop on 1st & 2nd July, which focused on enhancing digital infrastructure and connectivity. This event underscored the importance of providing communities with better access to digital tools and resources, a critical step towards inclusive growth. SDC Startup School Visit On 16th July, Cynthia E. Chisom from SDC Startup School paid a visit to Startup Kano. The visit was a fantastic opportunity to discuss innovative approaches and entrepreneurial strategies. SDC Startup School’s commitment to fostering startups and supporting new entrepreneurs aligns perfectly with our mission at Startup Kano. Mercy Corps Feed the Future Visit The following day, on 17th July, we welcomed Nurein Abdulfattah and Jamila Mahdi from Mercy Corps Feed the Future, Nigeria Rural Resilience Activity. Our discussions focused on enhancing rural resilience and food security, with a particular emphasis on strategic planning and improving rural livelihoods. Their dedication to these critical areas is truly inspiring. British Council Visit We were also honored to engage with Richard Garrett and Yahaya Joseph Janga from the British Council on 18th July. Their focus on promoting education and development through non-formal channels was a major highlight. The discussions underscored the importance of empowering communities through education, a crucial aspect of sustainable development. GIRL-H Program Job Fair and Skills Workshop The GIRL-H Program Job Fair and Skills Workshop, held on 24th & 25th July, was one of the major event this month. Hosted by IsaWali Empowerment Initiative in collaboration with Mercy Corps, the two-day event was a platform to connect passionate young women and girls with skills and networks crucial for their growth. Startup Kano was invited to facilitate a session on ‘Networking for Business Growth Workshop’ provided valuable insights into building strategic partnerships and mentorships. Arewa Radio 93.1 FM On 24th July, Amina Idris represented Startup Kano at Kano Mu Zauna Lafiya, a program by Arewa Radio. The discussion was on the critical role parents play in overseeing their children’s use of social media. The conversation highlighted the need for digital literacy and responsible online behavior, a timely topic in today’s digital age. Emotional Intelligence for Work-Life Balance Workshop The Northern Therapist in collaboration with Startup Kano, hosted a workshop focusing on ‘Emotional Intelligence for Work-Life Balance,’ on 27th July, as part of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. This workshop emphasized the significance of emotional intelligence in managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, particularly for men. Annual Skills Festival and Session Finally, we wrapped up the month with the Annual Skills Festival and Session by Enthuse Entrepreneurship School on 28th July, a vibrant event showcasing a range of skills and promoting continuous learning. It was an excellent opportunity to foster a culture of skill development and showcase the talents within our community. As we look forward to August, we remain committed to driving positive change and supporting our community through innovation, education, and collaboration. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and events!

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The Benefits of Joining a Co-Working Space

Working from home has its perks—flexibility, comfort, and no commute. But as many remote workers have discovered, it also comes with challenges like distractions, isolation, and the struggle to maintain a work-life balance. What if you could enjoy all the benefits of working from home while overcoming its drawbacks? A co-working space offers the perfect solution, enhancing your remote work experience. Here’s how! 1. Enhanced Productivity Distraction-Free Environment: Co-working spaces are designed to minimize distractions, providing a focused atmosphere conducive to getting work done efficiently. Professional Setting: The structured environment helps maintain a productive routine and fosters a professional work ethic. Access to Resources: Enjoy high-speed internet, office equipment, and meeting rooms that streamline your work processes and boost efficiency. 2. Networking Opportunities Diverse Community: Co-working spaces bring together a variety of professionals, enabling you to expand your network and build valuable connections across different fields. Collaboration: The collaborative environment encourages interaction, leading to potential partnerships, new projects, or valuable advice from peers. Networking Events: Many co-working spaces host events, workshops, and social gatherings, providing ample opportunities to connect with others. 3. Cost-Effective Solutions Affordable Office Space: Co-working spaces offer flexible membership plans that are more affordable than traditional office leases, making them a cost-effective option. Shared Amenities: Benefit from shared amenities like printers, scanners, and conference rooms without bearing the overhead costs. Pay-as-You-Go Plans: Many co-working spaces offer daily or hourly rates, allowing you to pay only for the time you need. 4. Professional Development Skill Workshops: Co-working spaces frequently host workshops and training sessions on various topics, helping you stay updated with industry trends and enhance your skills. Mentorship Opportunities: Access to mentors and experienced professionals within the community can provide valuable guidance and support. Resource Libraries: Utilize resource libraries or online portals for materials that aid in your professional growth. 5. Improved Work-Life Balance Separation of Work and Home: Working from a co-working space helps establish a clear boundary between your work and personal life, reducing burnout and improving well-being. Flexible Hours: Co-working spaces often have flexible operating hours, allowing you to work according to your schedule and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Social Interaction: Being part of a co-working community provides opportunities for social interaction, combating isolation and promoting well-being. 6. Enhanced Creativity and Motivation Inspirational Environment: The vibrant and diverse atmosphere in co-working spaces can boost creativity, leading to new ideas and perspectives. Supportive Community: Being surrounded by motivated individuals fosters a sense of drive and inspiration, encouraging you to stay focused and productive. Access to Events: Participate in creative and entrepreneurial events that stimulate new ideas and opportunities. 7. Access to Clients and Projects Potential Clients: You may find potential clients within the co-working community or through referrals from other members. Job Boards and Listings: Some co-working spaces feature job boards or project listings, offering access to new opportunities. Collaborative Projects: Opportunities for collaborative projects with other members can diversify your experience and skillset. 8. Professional Image Meeting Spaces: Access to professional meeting rooms and office spaces enhances your ability to host client meetings and presentations effectively. Business Address: Co-working spaces often provide a business address and mail handling services, adding a layer of credibility to your operations. Client Impressions: A reputable co-working space can create a positive impression, reflecting your commitment to professionalism. 9. Scalability Flexible Memberships: Easily scale up or down your membership plan as your needs change, offering flexibility to adapt to your growth. Expansion Opportunities: Many co-working spaces have multiple locations, allowing you to expand your network and operations seamlessly. Short-Term Commitments: Benefit from short-term commitments, giving you the freedom to change your workspace as needed without long-term contracts. 10. Community Support Peer Support: The co-working community provides a network of support where you can share challenges and receive advice or assistance from peers. Community Culture: Co-working spaces often foster a culture of support and collaboration, making it easier to find help and encouragement. Access to Resources: Being part of a community means access to shared knowledge, tools, and resources that can aid in your projects and tasks. Working from home can be great, but integrating a co-working space into your routine can make it even better. By combining the flexibility of remote work with the resources, community, and professional environment of a co-working space, you can enhance your productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction. Explore local co-working spaces and discover how they can elevate your work-from-home experience today!

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Zonal Workshop on ICT Adoption, Utilization, and Sustainability

The landscape of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Nigeria is evolving rapidly, with significant strides being made towards enhancing digital inclusion and leveraging technology for socio-economic development. One such impactful initiative was the 2-Day Zonal Workshop on ICT Adoption, Utilization, and Sustainability, held on July 1st and 2nd, 2024, and attended by key stakeholders, including Startup Kano, represented by our HR, Yomi Sani. Objective of the Workshop The workshop, organized by the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), focused on several pivotal goals: Capacity Building: Enhancing the knowledge of operators and managers of Public Access Venues (PAVs), especially Digital Resource Centers (DNCs) and Community Resource Centers (CRCs), on sustainable operations. Challenge Discussion: Addressing the unique challenges faced by CRC and DNC operators across different zones of the federation. Innovation and Resource Mobilization: Developing innovative strategies to ensure continuous support and resources for DNCs and CRCs, aiming for their optimal functionality and sustainability. Youth Empowerment: Equipping Nigerian youths with ICT skills for developing innovative applications and services. Stakeholder Enlightenment: Educating stakeholders on the activities and contributions of the USPF towards national ICT advancement. The workshop centered around the theme: “Leveraging Information and Communication Technology as a Driver for Socio-Economic Development.” Sub-themes included: ICT Tools for e-Business and Collaboration 21st Century Trends for ICT Inclusion and Sustainability in Rural Communities ICT Career Potentials and Opportunities Day 1: Foundation and Framework The first day set the stage for a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities within the ICT space. The event kicked off with a keynote address by Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, Secretary of the Universal Service Provisions Fund (USPF), who highlighted the significance of ICT in bridging socio-economic gaps. Key sessions included: Promotion of Universal Access and Connectivity: The Head of Infrastructure Projects at USPF discussed strategies to enhance connectivity in rural and underserved areas. This session underscored the importance of infrastructure in realizing the full potential of ICT. Overview of ICT in Nigeria: This workshop explored global ICT trends and their implications for rural inclusion. It was a crucial session for understanding the broader context in which we operate and the potential pathways for innovation. ICT Tools for e-Business and Collaboration: This session provided practical insights into leveraging smart tools for everyday business operations, a critical aspect for startups looking to integrate technology seamlessly into their workflows. Day 2: Hands-On Learning and Forward Thinking The second day was more hands-on, focusing on the practical applications of ICT in everyday life and the career opportunities it offers. It began with a presentation by the Head of Information Technology Projects at USPF on promoting the digital economy in Nigeria. Highlights included: Career Opportunities in ICT: This session delved into the various career paths available within the ICT sector, emphasizing mobile application development. Participants engaged in hands-on activities, gaining firsthand experience in this rapidly growing field. Sustainability of USPF Projects: A discussion session that focused on how to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of ICT initiatives. This dialogue was crucial for understanding how projects can be sustained long-term, a challenge many startups face. The 2-Day Zonal ICT Workshop has highlighted the critical importance of commitment to leveraging ICT for socio-economic development and was equipped with the knowledge to drive innovation in our community.

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