Dear Valued Subscribers,
Happy New Year!
As we step into the dawn of a new year, we extend a warm welcome to each one of you.
2024 lies before us, new and filled with promises and it is best for us to approach this year with a spirit of resilience and innovation.
Your ventures are the backbone of our shared journey, and together, we shall navigate the evolving landscape of opportunities and growth.
May 2024 be adorned with prosperity, collaboration, and unwavering success for each business we proudly serve.
Navigating 2024: Key Business Trends to Embrace.
Considering several studies forecasting the business trends that will emerge in 2024, it is safe to say we are at the forefront of an era of innovation and adaptation.
At Spurt! we understand the importance of staying ahead of all things, and as part of our commitment to your success, we would like to share insights into the key trends that are set to define the business world in the coming year.
As you contemplate integrating these trends into your business strategy, we recognise that navigating change can be challenging. If you are seeking guidance on incorporating one or more of these trends into your operations and are unsure where to begin, our team at Spurt! is here to help. Feel free to reach out to us via email at growth@spurt.group.
Remember we are your growth partner, and we are always eager to assist you on your journey to success.
Upcoming Event This Month.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) initially imposed a ban on cryptocurrency trading in 2021, citing concerns about money laundering and terror financing. A circular was issued instructing Nigerian banks and financial institutions to refrain from engaging in cryptocurrency transactions due to the lack of sufficient crypto regulation and consumer protection in the country.
In a significant turn of events, the CBN reversed its stance in December 2023, lifting the ban on cryptocurrency trading. A new circular was issued, granting banks and financial institutions' permission to open cryptocurrency accounts.
This reversal holds implications for Nigerian crypto companies and carries notable significance for businesses. Join our Twitter Space discussion titled "CBN's Crypto Policy and What It Means for Business," on the 26th of January 2024, to explore the impact on businesses. Find all the answers to questions surrounding the effects on Nigerian crypto companies and the reasons behind this recent deregulation.
Sync! Hackathon! - First of Its Kind.
Collaboration is at the heart of success, yet we know it comes with its challenges. In the quest for seamless collaboration, we are excited to announce our Sync! Hackathon coming up on 31st January 2024.
We envison a day where creativity and problem-solving skills take center stage, all centered around the theme 'Simplifying Collaboration.'This isn't just about competitions, it's an opportunity for bright minds to tackle real-world collaboration hurdles, emerge with innovative solutions and walk home with fantastic cash prizes.
Register here to secure your space and lookout for upcoming details on how to participate.
Your Opinions are Valuable.
Care Aids are supportive tools designed to enhance the well-being and independence of individuals with disabilities or special needs. These accommodations play a crucial role in facilitating ordinary daily activities and ensuring a comfortable living environment for everyone. We would like to understand the extent to which everyone has equal access to public spaces in Nigeria. Share your thoughts on the accessibility of public spaces in this quick survey and join us in building a more inclusive future.
Business News This Week.
Uganda - The Ugandan government has tabled an amendment to its health and safety laws that will require all employers to institute health and safety measures in the workplace.
Nigeria - Dangote Petroleum Refinery can now meet 100% of Nigeria’s requirement of all refined products, gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and aviation jet, and have a surplus for export as it receives 6mn Barrels of Crude Oil.
Kenya - Kenya’s export to neighbouring countries grew in the third quarter of 2023, pushing the country’s total exports to KSh269.4 billion, a growth of 19.6 percent compared to the same quarter of 2022.
Ghana- Bank of Ghana has given authorisation to 16 FX Brokers to operate on the Ghana Interbank FX market, effective January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
Startup Opportunities
Applications are now open for the African Women Entrepreneurs Program Reimagined 2024, powered by the United States African Development Foundation. Open to Women-Owned African Businesses. Grant Amount: Up to $100,000. Application Deadline: 21st January 2024.
CcHub and Mastercard Foundation are partnering to empower ed-tech startups that are building tools that enhance learning outcomes and accelerate access to equitable and quality education for Africa’s next generation. Open to all African EdTech Businesses. Application Deadline: Not Stated.
Applications are now accepted for the 2025 Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) Africa Entrepreneurial Training Program. MEST Africa’s 12-month training program provides world-class education in software development, business, and communication skills. Open to African entrepreneurs Application Deadline: 18th March 2024.
The Because Accelerator is inviting entrepreneurs to participate in its accelerator initiative designed to assist them in upgrading their innovative products to the next level. Funding Reward: Up to $100,000. Application Deadline: 26th January 2024
Application is ongoing for The Baobab Network Accelerator, an initiative aimed at providing funding and capacity development resources for the next generation of tech giants in Africa. Open to all African entrepreneurs Grant Amount: Up to $100,000. Application Deadline: Ongoing
