Tech-entrepreneurs, potential investors to meet at Microsoft sponsored forum

40 tech-based start-ups from across Africa are expected to pitch to potential investors this month at DEMO Africa, a five-day programme sponsored by Microsoft Corporation.

In a statement released by the organisers of the event, the names of the final 40 start-ups that will launch on the DEMO Africa stage have been released with Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Egypt having the highest representation.

Microsoft Corporation which has taken up platinum sponsorship for this year’s edition of DEMO Africa is participating in the event for the third time under the Microsoft 4Afrika initiative.

Commenting on the collaboration, Fernando de Sousa, GM Africa Initiatives at Microsoft, underscored the importance of innovations to the growing African economy. “DEMO Africa has given a platform for investors to realise the enormous potential amongst African youth showcased through startups. As an organisation that has operated in the continent for over 20 years, Microsoft believes  Africa’s economic take-off to long-term growth prospects  will be determined by the investment decisions we make today in support of  youth initiatives. ”

Welcoming the support, DEMO Africa’s Executive Producer, Harry Hare commented that investor’s confidence plays a very critical role in motivating start-up entrepreneurs. “We acknowledge the support of Microsoft and their efforts in uplifting young entrepreneurs in Africa. It is this kind of support that assures us that the future is indeed bright for Africa and at DEMO Africa we are keen to make our contribution to this success.

As has been witnessed in the past, the September event is expected to attract top investors, tech acquisition specialists, IT buyers and media from across the region and around the globe. Participants’ registration is already open.

DEMO Africa 2014 is scheduled to take place between 22nd and 26th of September at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria. This year’s event is being organised in collaboration with the LIONS@FRICA partners, VC4Africa and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies.

OLUYINKA ALAWODE