Challenge
ANDE is interested in understanding and improving the ability of small and growing businesses (SGBs) and innovation enablers to leverage digital transformation as a pathway to greater resilience and prosperity. The COVID-19 crisis has accelerated the need for this digitalization, catching many entrepreneurs and innovation enablers unprepared. ANDE has already fostered the digital transformation of the SGB sector in Latin America and India. Together, we are expanding this work to Africa.
Approach
To promote the inclusive digitalization of the SGB sector in Africa, ANDE carries out a virtual matchmaking event to facilitate connections between innovation enablers and digital service providers. Subsequently, digitalization learning labs at a pan-African level foster peer-learning and exchange on best practices. ANDE also carries out a research project that analyses both entrepreneur- and programme-level data to advise innovation enablers on how to best use digital tools to improve their services.
Goal
The project’s overall aim is to facilitate inclusive digitalization in Africa. By giving access to research data and promoting peer-learning, ANDE supports enterprise support organisations and innovation enablers to optimize their digital strategies and services – especially considering the COVID-19 pandemic. Provided with better digital programmes and services, African enterprises can become more digitally capable and resilient as well.
