The Kosmos Innovation
Centre (KIC) team has embarked on a journey to visit 35 Agritechie Start-ups,
participants in the 2024 AgriTech Challenge Pro, to witness firsthand the
transformative impact of their innovations in the agricultural sector.
Accompanied by faculty advisors, technical officers, and program officers, the
team saw the practical applications of the start-ups' tech innovations and
interacted with smallholder farmers who benefit from these businesses.
The start-ups, located
across 10 regions in Ghana, have received USD 2,000 each from KIC to develop
their products and services. The teams observed significant progress, including
business registrations, partnerships with organizations like CSIR and local
agricultural departments, and the development of environmentally friendly
solutions that reduce waste.
KIC's Executive Director,
Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting
start-ups that benefit not only the businesses themselves but also smallholder
farmers and the entire value chain. Ato Ulzen-Appiah, Entrepreneurship Development
Specialist at KIC, also stressed the importance of these validation trips in
ensuring the start-ups are investor-ready and providing a deeper understanding
of the solutions they offer.
The AgriTech Challenge
Pro, a 5-month program supported by the Mastercard Foundation, aims to equip
young entrepreneurs with skills for dignified and fulfilling jobs. Through this
initiative, KIC demonstrates its dedication to fostering innovation and
sustainable growth in Ghana's agricultural sector.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
