Breakout 1
|
Fireside Chat
Saturday
|
9:00 am
Aldrich 111

Entrepreneurship through Acquisition: Owning and Growing Businesses in Africa

Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA) is emerging as a compelling pathway for entrepreneurs seeking to own and operate businesses in Africa. While startups often capture the entrepreneurial spotlight, acquiring and scaling existing businesses presents a high-impact alternative for driving economic growth, preserving jobs, and creating value. This fireside chat will explore the real-world journey of acquiring and managing businesses in Africa.

Panelists will share insights on sourcing opportunities, financing acquisitions, operational considerations, and opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs illustrated through case studies. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the ETA model and the practicalities of executing acquisitions in diverse African markets.

Entrepreneurship through Acquisition: Owning and Growing Businesses in Africa

Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA) is emerging as a compelling pathway for entrepreneurs seeking to own and operate businesses in Africa. While startups often capture the entrepreneurial spotlight, acquiring and scaling existing businesses presents a high-impact alternative for driving economic growth, preserving jobs, and creating value. This fireside chat will explore the real-world journey of acquiring and managing businesses in Africa.

Panelists will share insights on sourcing opportunities, financing acquisitions, operational considerations, and opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs illustrated through case studies. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the ETA model and the practicalities of executing acquisitions in diverse African markets.

America/New_York
Feb 15, 2025 9:00 AM
Aldrich 111

Other Sessions

More Info
Keynotes
Saturday
|
5:00 pm
Klarman Auditorium
State of the (African) Union
Experts assess Africa’s unity, geopolitical tensions, AfCFTA, and the role of business, government, and society.
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State of the (African) Union

Is Africa moving toward greater unity or deeper division? This closing session will assess geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and regional progress, from the Sahel crisis and DRC-Rwanda conflict to the growth of AfCFTA and digital transformation. A panel of experts will tackle tough questions: Are regional organizations adapting? What role should business, government, and civil society play? And is Beyond Borders a vision to pursue — or a concept to rethink?

America/New_York
Feb 15, 2025 5:00 PM
Klarman Auditorium
More Info
Breakout 3
Saturday
|
3:45 pm
Aldrich 112
Cross Over Borders: The Global Rise of African Sports and Gaming
This panel explores scaling Africa’s gaming and sports industries, investment, talent development, and global impact.
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Cross Over Borders: The Global Rise of African Sports and Gaming

Africa’s influence in sports and gaming is on the rise, with exceptional talent reshaping global leagues and innovative gaming startups gaining international attention. This panel will explore scaling Africa’s gaming ecosystem, advancing sports infrastructure, attracting international investment, and the role of technology in connecting African gamers and athletes with global audiences. The discussion will also cover what it will take to foster talent development and empower youth to reach global prominence and position Africa as a global leader in sports and gaming.

America/New_York
Feb 15, 2025 3:45 PM
Aldrich 112
More Info
Breakout 2
Saturday
|
11:30 am
Spangler Auditorium
Strategic Investments for Impact and Growth across Africa
This panel explores innovative financing, collaboration, and investment strategies to drive Africa’s sustainable growth and development.
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Strategic Investments for Impact and Growth across Africa

The panel brings together key financiers in Africa—spanning the private sector, philanthropies, and public sector players—to explore how innovative financing can drive sustainable development and economic growth across the continent. The discussion will highlight the critical role of collaboration among these stakeholders in addressing Africa’s unique challenges and unlocking its opportunities. Panelists will share insights on structuring impactful investments, mobilizing capital at scale, and leveraging strategic partnerships, while also addressing the challenges they face when operating in the region.

America/New_York
Feb 15, 2025 11:30 AM
Spangler Auditorium