Dutch Venture Builder Unveils Lagos Hub to Empower Startups, Entrepreneurs – Businessday NG
L-R: Nelson Ajulo, chief executive officer of 15Wins Ventures; Michel Deelen, consul general of the Netherlands in Lagos; Valkamiya Ahmadu, senior policy advisor on Economic and Political Affairs at Netherlands Embassy, Abuja; Sonia Onovughakpo Fajusigbe, policy advisor on Entrepreneurship, Youth Employment and Health Care at the consulate general of the Netherlands in Lagos; Bengt van Loosdrecht, ambassador of Netherlands to Nigeria, at the unveiling of the Z-Habitat Hub in Lagos.
15Wins Ventures, a Dutch-based venture builder, has announced the opening of a new hub in Lagos, designed to empower startups and foster entrepreneurship among Nigerian youth. The newly inaugurated Z-Habitat Hub aims to host workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking events that encourage collaboration among young Nigerians with innovative ideas.
During the unveiling event in Lagos, Bengt van Loosdrecht, ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria, highlighted the hub’s mission to create equitable opportunities for underserved communities. He noted that Nigeria boasts a vibrant domestic private sector driven by a young and well-educated population.
“Nigeria’s youth is in for an exciting future with this type of dynamic hub because this is what is obtainable in other rapidly developing regions,” Loosdrecht stated.
Nelson Ajulo, chief executive officer of 15Wins Ventures, characterized the hub as a convergence point for technology, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. According to Ajulo, the establishment of such a hub aligns perfectly with the company’s goal of building a sustainable foundation for African tech development and channeling resources from the Netherlands to local talent in West Africa.
“We aim to provide local entrepreneurs and creatives with the resources, mentorship, and networks they need to turn their ideas into impactful solutions,” said Ajulo.
Ajulo further mentioned that through Zarttalent, the company has already trained nearly 500 students and offered scholarships to underserved women. The launch of Z-Habitat extends their commitment to empowering Nigeria’s youth and supporting the broader community.
“The launch of Z-Habitat underscores our dedication to fostering homegrown innovation and providing a structured, supportive environment for Nigerian entrepreneurs,” he explained.
“As Lagos’ startup landscape continues to thrive, Z-Habitat is poised to play a critical role in helping entrepreneurs transform their ideas into impactful solutions that drive long-term growth,” he added.
The unveiling marks a significant step in bridging resources to local talent, aiming to propel Nigeria into the forefront of tech innovation within Africa. The hub promises not only to empower individuals but also serve as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s economic growth.
With venues like the Z-Habitat Hub, Nigeria’s young talents stand to gain invaluable support and opportunities, potentially driving significant change and development in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
As these initiatives take root, they are expected to foster an environment ripe for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Such efforts underscore the potential for transformative change within Nigeria’s economic landscape, driven by the energy and innovation of its youth. The launch of Z-Habitat represents a critical stride towards a future where young Nigerian entrepreneurs can thrive on a global stage, backed by the necessary resources and support to bring their visions to life.
