MICHAEL EKPECHUE is the director of Adanian Labs, an ecosystem of partners which provide a shared economy offering to technology companies looking to scale across Africa, and he has a plan to help Black businesses be more prosperous.
The Windrush Startup Project, of which Ekpechue is a co-founder, is a campaign designed to financially uplift and empower Afro-Caribbean startup businesses in Greater Manchester and the north-west.
Established by Ekpechue‘s company in partnership with the Windrush Millennium Centre (Moss Side & Hulme Community Development Trust), the businessman wanted to provide a roadmap and guidance for the Afro-Caribbean businesses which took a hit economically due to COVID-19 and are yet to recover.
“Our priorities are to help businesses owned by people of
Afro-Caribbean origin as these businesses have lower rates of visibility and higher chances of failure within the first year of operation,” said Ekpechue.
He added: “Therefore, a strategic guidance is necessary not only to bring their products and services to the UK market, but as a Pan-Africanist, to bring to the global market.”
His revolutionary Africa-focused tech organisation, along with the Windrush Millennium Centre, will provide three businesses a life-changing opportunity to reach clients nationally and globally.
This will be achieved through offering strategic guidance to bring products and services to the market, business structure and operational expertise, branding, and marketing support to build strong presence, mentorship for two years post-programme to facilitate continued success and investment funds to support with financial needs.
Three businesses will be selected. These businesses must have a clear business plan with the potential of reaching a global market and scalability.
To aid with financial obstacles selected businesses might have faced, £100,000 is on offer.
Businesses not selected will benefit from financial literacy programmes and marketing ideas.
“The Afro-Caribbean Diaspora community is brimming with talent and potential,” said Otis Thomas, a trustee at the Windrush Millennium Centre.
“We are confident this programme will be a catalyst for innovation and economic growth within the community.”
Organisers say that the residual benefits range from applicants being able to transfer to broader economic success, while the knowledge acquired can be used in mentoring the next generation of Black business owners.
The programme’s selection process includes rigorous screening, ensuring the most dedicated and promising startup founders are selected.
Applications will be reviewed followed by a thorough evaluation of presentation by a panel of industry experts.
“The project is also intended to honour the Windrush generation’s legacy, contributions, and for setting the blueprint of economic mobility for Black people of African and Caribbean descent,” said Ekpechue.
“And it is an honour to take upon this work of materially and financially improving the lives of the community around me.”
Sign up at mshcdt.co.uk. Applications close on June 9.
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