ARM Wraps Up DAAYTA 2023 Announces Winner Of ₦12m Grant

The fifth edition of the Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) program came to a successful conclusion through a virtual pitch event, and Captain Natima Opuiyo of Natibo Technologies emerged as winner of N12 million grant.

The program was established in honor of ARM’s founding CEO, Deji Alli, to support young entrepreneurs with innovative and sustainable ideas capable of impacting society positively. After a rigorous review of over 450 applications from start-up entrepreneurs across Nigeria, seven outstanding companies were selected to pitch their ideas. The selected startups were Cdial Limited, Moon Innovations, Natibo Technologies Nigeria Limited, Sakula Limited, StackJunior, Strich, Inc., and ThinkBikes Limited.

The finalists delivered captivating pitches, demonstrating their ingenuity and the potential of their technologies to disrupt various industries. A panel of judges, comprising industry experts, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and seasoned professionals, evaluated the pitches and selected the winner. The winner of DAAYTA 2023 received funding of ₦12,000,000 (twelve million naira) over a period of one (1) year for the following purposes: development of business plan, completing of an entrepreneurial education at the Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) in Lagos, Nigeria, and receiving 5-month acceleration support for the development of their venture through a reputable entrepreneurial hub in Lagos, Nigeria.

The DAAYTA program is a testament to ARM’s commitment to supporting start-ups and providing them access to new markets. The virtual event held on April 14, 2023, witnessed enthusiastic participation from entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts.

The CEO of ARM Group, Jumoke Ogundare, said in her opening remarks, “We are thrilled with the level of innovation and creativity displayed by the finalists of DAAYTA 2023. The ideas presented were truly exceptional, and we are excited to see how these young entrepreneurs will continue to positively impact their communities and contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy.”

In addition, the CEO congratulated all the finalists and the winner of DAAYTA 2023, stressing that one of the major purposes of the program was to encourage collaboration within the DAAYTA alumni network.

A unique addition to the DAAYTA 2023 is the introduction of the DAAYTA Alumni Impact Award. The award was created to reaffirm the commitment to supporting the start-ups in the ecosystem and further deepening the relationship with the alumni through closer engagement, interaction, connections, and continuous support for their business growth.

The winners of the DAAYTA Alumni Impact Award were Fela Akinse, the founder of SALUBATA (DAAYTA 2021 edition), Boluwatife Omotayo, the founder of GAMP Technology, (DAAYTA 2022), and Uche Kenneth Udekwe, the founder of Natal Cares (DAAYTA 2021).

About ARM:

ARM is a leading investment management firm that provides diverse asset management services to a broad and diversified client base, including corporations, foundations and charities, high net-worth individuals, and small savers. Established in 1994 as an asset management firm, Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most innovative and respected non-bank financial institutions focusing on Traditional Asset Management and Specialized Funds.  For more information about ARM or the DAAYTA Program, visit www.arm.com.ng

About TechnoVision

TechnoVision is the brand name for TechnoVision Communications Limited— a technology services company that advises clients on technology-led transformation and early-stage entrepreneurship in Africa. See http://tvcng.com/ for more details. For more information about visit www.tvcng.com.

ARM’s DAAYTA 2023: Celebrating Five Years of Supporting Young Entrepreneurs in Nigeria

ARM’s Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) program has successfully concluded its fifth edition with a virtual pitch event held on April 14th, 2023. The program was established in honor of ARM’s founding CEO, Deji Alli, to support young entrepreneurs with innovative and sustainable ideas capable of impacting society positively. After a rigorous review of over 450 applications from start-up entrepreneurs across Nigeria, seven outstanding companies were selected to pitch their ideas. The selected startups were Cdial Limited, Moon Innovations, Natibo Technologies Nigeria Limited, Sakula Limited, StackJunior, Strich, Inc., and ThinkBikes Limited.

The finalists delivered captivating pitches, demonstrating their ingenuity and the potential of their technologies to disrupt various industries. A panel of judges, comprising industry experts, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and seasoned professionals, evaluated the pitches and selected the winner. The winner of DAAYTA 2023, subject to the Terms & Conditions, will receive funding of ₦12,000,000 (twelve million naira) over a period of one (1) year for the following purposes: developing their business plan, completing an entrepreneurial education at the Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) in Lagos, Nigeria, and receiving 5-month acceleration support for the development of their venture through a reputable entrepreneurial hub in Lagos, Nigeria.

The DAAYTA program is a testament to ARM’s commitment to supporting start-ups and providing them access to new markets. The virtual event held on April 14, 2023, witnessed enthusiastic participation from entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. The CEO of ARM Group, Jumoke Ogundare, said in her opening remarks, “We are thrilled with the level of innovation and creativity displayed by the finalists of DAAYTA 2023. The ideas presented were truly exceptional, and we are excited to see how these young entrepreneurs will continue to positively impact their communities and contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy.”

A unique addition to the DAAYTA 2023 is the introduction of the DAAYTA Alumni Impact Award. The award was created to reaffirm the commitment to supporting the start-ups in the ecosystem and further deepening the relationship with the alumni through closer engagement, interaction, connections, and continuous support for their business growth.

The winners of the DAAYTA Alumni Impact Award were Fela Akinse, the founder of SALUBATA (DAAYTA 2021 edition), Boluwatife Omotayo, the founder of GAMP Technology, (DAAYTA 2022), and Uche Kenneth Udekwe, the founder of Natal Cares (DAAYTA 2021).

About ARM:

ARM is a leading investment management firm that provides diverse asset management services to a broad and diversified client base, including corporations, foundations and charities, high net-worth individuals, and small savers. Established in 1994 as an asset management firm, Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most innovative and respected non-bank financial institutions focusing on Traditional Asset Management and Specialized Funds.

For more information about ARM or the DAAYTA Program, visit www.arm.com.ng or www.tvcng.com.

 

Choosing Your Next of Kin: Factors to Consider

Choosing Your Next of Kin: Factors to Consider

Choosing your next of kin is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Your next of kin is the person who will be responsible for making decisions about your medical care and other important matters if you are unable to do so yourself. This could happen in the event of a serious illness, injury, or even death. Here are some things to consider when choosing your next of kin.

Legal Considerations

In most cases, your next of kin will be your spouse or your closest blood relative. However, it is important to note that the laws regarding next of kin can vary depending on your location and personal circumstances. For example, if you are married but separated, your spouse may not be considered your next of kin. Additionally, if you have children from a previous marriage, they may have legal rights that could affect who is considered your next of kin. It is important to consult with a legal professional to ensure that you have a clear understanding of who is legally considered your next of kin.

Personal Considerations

While legal considerations are important, it is also important to choose a next of kin based on personal factors. You want to choose someone who you trust to make decisions that are in your best interest. This person should also be someone who is willing and able to take on the responsibilities of being your next of kin. For example, if you have a close friend who is more responsible and reliable than a family member, you may want to consider choosing them as your next of kin instead.

Communication

Once you have chosen your next of kin, it is important to communicate your wishes to them. Let them know that you have chosen them and explain what responsibilities they will have if the need arises. You may also want to consider creating a formal document, such as a living will or healthcare proxy, that outlines your wishes for medical care and other important decisions. This can help ensure that your next of kin understands your wishes and can make informed decisions on your behalf.

Review and Update

Your choice of next of kin may change over time as your personal circumstances change. For example, if you get divorced, you may want to choose a new next of kin. It is important to review and update your choice of next of kin periodically to ensure that it still reflects your wishes and circumstances.

In conclusion, choosing your next of kin is an important decision that requires careful consideration of legal, personal, and communication factors. By choosing a trusted and responsible individual, communicating your wishes, and periodically reviewing and updating your choice, you can ensure that your next of kin will be prepared to make important decisions on your behalf if the need arises.

ARM’S DAAYTA 2023 virtual finalists pitch event

The Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) program is gearing up for its fifth edition with the finalists’ pitch event scheduled to hold virtually on April 14th, 2023. This initiative was established in 2015 by ARM, in honor of its founding CEO, Deji Alli. The initiative’s primary objective is to support young entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas that can positively impact people’s lives and the communities around them.

Some of the past winners of the initiative include –

Following a thorough review of over 482 applications from start-up entrepreneurs across Nigeria, the organizers have selected the top seven (7) outstanding companies to pitch their ideas. The committees’ goal remains focused on identifying start-ups with a minimum viable product (MVP) and at least one customer. The selected startups are Cdial Limited, Moon Innovations, Natibo Technologies Nigeria Limited, Sakula Limited, StackJunior, Strich, Inc. and ThinkBikes Limited. The finalists will have the opportunity to present their pitches virtually to a panel of judges comprising respected entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals, including Ndidi Nnoli-Edozien, Victor Asemota, Sadiq Mohammed, Folasade Olusanya, Kola Aina, Ina Alogwu, and Tomi Davies.

The eventual winner of DAAYTA 2023, subject to the Terms & Conditions, will receive funding of ₦12,000,000 (twelve million naira) over a period of one (1) year for the following purposes:

  • Develop their business plan.
  • Complete an entrepreneurial education at the Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) in Lagos, Nigeria.
  • Receive a 5-month acceleration support for development of their venture through a reputable entrepreneurial hub in Lagos, Nigeria.

As part of ARM’s long-term goal to support and give start-ups access to new markets, the ARM Group is delighted to host another edition of DAAYTA. The virtual event is scheduled to hold on Friday, April 15, 2023, at 6:00 PM via Zoom. Interested participants can register for the event by clicking HERE.

About ARM

ARM is a leading investment management firm that provides diverse asset management services to a broad and diversified client base, including corporations, foundations and charities, high net-worth individuals, and small savers. Established in 1994 as an asset management firm, Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most innovative and respected non-bank financial institutions focusing on Traditional Asset Management and Specialized Funds. For more details, visit arm.com.ng.

About TechnoVision

TechnoVision is the brand name for TechnoVision Communications Limited, a technology services company that advises clients on technology-led transformation and early-stage entrepreneurship in Africa. See www.tvcng.com for more details.

Finalist Pitch for DAAYTA 2023

The Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) program is gearing up for its fifth edition with the finalists’ pitch event scheduled to hold virtually on April 14th, 2023. This initiative was established in 2015 by ARM, in honor of its founding CEO, Deji Alli. The initiative’s primary objective is to support young entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas that can positively impact people’s lives and the communities around them.

Following a thorough review of over 482 applications from start-up entrepreneurs across Nigeria, the organizers have selected the top seven (7) outstanding companies to pitch their ideas.

The selected startups are Cdial Limited, Moon Innovations, Natibo Technologies Nigeria Limited, Sakula Limited, StackJunior, Strich, Inc. and ThinkBikes Limited. 

The winner of the DAAYTA 2023 will receive funding of ₦12,000,000 (twelve million naira) over a period of one (1) year to; develop their business plan, complete an entrepreneurial education at the Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre in Lagos, Nigeria; and finance a 5-month acceleration support to develop their venture via a reputable entrepreneurial hub also in Lagos.

5 Questions to Ask Before Writing A Will

It is understandable that the thought of creating a Will can be overwhelming and stressful. However, it is important to remember that having a Will is one of the most responsible things you can do to secure your family’s future and provide peace of mind for yourself.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common questions and concerns that arise during the process of creating a will.

What should be included in my Will?

When it comes to the contents of your Will, the choices are entirely up to you. Some common inclusions may be real property, vehicles, shares, cash, appointment powers, funeral requests, specific items or personal belongings, and guardianships for your children. It is also important to consider any debts that you may have and how they will be managed in conjunction with your assets.

Who should I nominate as my executor?

The executor of your will is responsible for administering your estate and ensuring that your wishes are carried out. It is important to choose someone you trust, such as a spouse, adult child, or an institution such as ARM Trustees, However, it is crucial to discuss your nomination with the individual beforehand and ensure that they are comfortable with the responsibilities and requirements of the role.

How should I distribute my estate?

The way in which you choose to divide your assets is entirely up to you. However, it is generally considered best to prioritize your spouse and children before providing for others. Many people have a hierarchy of distribution in mind, which can be reflected in the way they divide their estate. Some may also choose to leave a percentage or specific amount to a charity or organization.

Who should be my children’s guardian?

In the event that both parents pass away, it is important to have appointed a guardian for your children. This individual or institution will be responsible for caring for your children and making decisions on their behalf. It is important to choose someone you trust and who has the capabilities to provide the best care for your children.

What are my final wishes?

While it may be difficult to think about, it is important to consider your final wishes and communicate them clearly to your loved ones. This may include funeral arrangements or other specific requests. By including these wishes in your will, you can ensure that your loved ones are aware of your desires and can carry them out with confidence.

Creating a Will may look like a complex process, but it is one that is well worth the effort. At ARM Trustees, we understand the importance of having a will and we have developed a platform that makes It easy for anyone to create their will in minutes. Visit our EASYWILL portal today to get started.

Everything You Need to Know About FGN Bond

What is a bond?

A bond is a type of investment where an investor loans money to a borrower, typically a government or corporation. When you purchase a bond, you are essentially lending money to the issuer. The issuer uses the proceeds from the bonds to fund various projects or initiatives. In return, the issuer promises to pay you a specified rate of interest (the coupon) throughout the life of the bond and to repay the face value of the bond (the principal or the original amount invested) at maturity. Bonds are often used as a means of generating income or diversifying an investment portfolio.

What is the nominal value of a bond?

The nominal value of a bond, also known as the principal or face value, refers to the total amount on which the issuer pays interest and is also the amount that must be repaid to the bondholder at the bond’s maturity date.

What is a coupon?

A coupon is the periodic interest payment made by the issuer of a bond to the bondholder. This payment is generally fixed at the time of issuance and is expressed as a percentage of the bond’s face value, which is why bonds are often called fixed-income instruments.

What is a yield?

A bond’s yield refers to the return that an investor will receive from the bond, which is usually expressed as a percentage of the bond’s current market price. The yield of a bond is inversely related to its price, meaning that as the price of a bond increases, its yield decreases, and vice versa.

What do yield, dirty price, and clean price mean?

The yield of a bond is the present value of all future interest and principal payments of the bond, discounted at the bond’s yield or rate of return. The market price of a bond may include the accrued interest since the last coupon date. The price of a bond including accrued interest is known as the “dirty price,” while the price excluding accrued interest is the “clean price.”

What is the maturity date?

The maturity date of a bond is the day on which the issuer repays the principal amount or face value of the bond, plus all outstanding accrued interest. After the maturity date, the issuer has no further obligations to the bondholders.

What is Accrued Interest?

Accrued interest is the amount of interest that has accumulated on a bond since the principal investment or last interest payment date. It is calculated and paid in pre-determined intervals (annually or semi-annually) for financial instruments such as bonds.

What is the difference between a Bond and a Stock?

The main difference between stocks and bonds is that stocks represent ownership in the issuing entity, while bonds are a form of debt in which the issuer promises to pay the principal amount at a specific date. Stocks pay dividends only if the issuer declares profit, whereas bonds pay interest at a set interval and the principal amount at maturity. Bonds are also known as ‘fixed-income’ securities as they provide a fixed return on investment.

What are the types of Bonds?

Bonds can be classified into different types based on the issuer. Sovereign bonds, like FGN bonds, are issued by the federal government, and State and Local Government Council bonds are issued by state or local governments. Government Agency bonds are issued by government agencies to finance specific projects, and Corporate bonds are issued by private sector companies to raise capital.

What are the risks and rewards of investing in bonds?

Any time you lend money, there is the risk that it will not be paid back. Bond investors also face prepayment and inflation risks. However, these risks are factored into the bond pricing, with higher risk bonds offering higher yields. Bond investments can provide a stable return on investment and can be used to diversify a portfolio.

Why should I invest in FGN bonds?

Investing in FGN bonds can be a good option for retirement planning, starting or expanding a business, paying for future expenses such as school fees or weddings, building a house or funding capital projects. The risk-free investment offers relatively high and stable returns, tax-exempt income, and can be used as collateral for securing credit facilities.

What are the benefits of FGN bonds to investors and the economy?

  • FGN bonds provide a risk-free investment opportunity with tax-exempt income and can be used as collateral for loans.
  • They also promote long-term investment in the economy and alternative sources of funding for the government, promoting self-reliance and reducing over-dependence on external finance.
  • FGN bonds help investors diversify their portfolios, promote financial inclusion, and provide benchmark yield-curve for pricing other debt securities/bonds.
  • They also enhance transparency, discipline, and stability in public finance management while strengthening the implementation of monetary policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

FAQs: Estate Planning and Trust

Estate Planning

What is estate planning?

Estate planning is the process of preparing and managing an individual’s assets in the event of their incapacitation or death. It involves creating a plan to distribute assets to beneficiaries, minimizing taxes and expenses, and ensuring that the individual’s wishes are carried out.

Why is estate planning important?

Estate planning is important because it allows an individual to make decisions about their assets while they are still alive and well. It ensures that their assets are distributed according to their wishes after their death and can help avoid family disputes and unnecessary taxes and expenses.

What is a trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement where a person (the trustee) holds and manages assets for the benefit of another person (the beneficiary). The trustee has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the beneficiary.

What are the benefits of a trust?

Trusts can provide a number of benefits, including avoiding probate, minimizing estate taxes, protecting assets from creditors, and ensuring that assets are distributed according to the individual’s wishes.

What types of trusts are available?

There are many different types of trusts, including revocable trusts, irrevocable trusts, charitable trusts, special needs trusts, and more. The type of trust that is best for an individual depends on their specific circumstances and goals.

Do I need a trust if I have a will?

Having a will is important, but it may not be enough to fully address an individual’s estate planning needs. A trust can provide additional benefits that a will cannot, such as avoiding probate and minimizing taxes and expenses.

How do I choose a trustee?

Choosing a trustee is an important decision, as the trustee will be responsible for managing the assets in the trust. It is important to choose someone who is trustworthy, reliable, and capable of managing the assets according to the individual’s wishes.

What is a power of attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone else the authority to act on an individual’s behalf in legal and financial matters. This can be important in the event that the individual becomes incapacitated and unable to make decisions for themselves.

What is a living will?

A living will is a legal document that outlines an individual’s wishes regarding end-of-life medical treatment. It can provide guidance to family members and medical professionals in the event that the individual is unable to make decisions for themselves.

Do I need an attorney to create an estate plan or trust?

While it is possible to create an estate plan or trust without an attorney, it is generally recommended to seek the advice of an experienced attorney. An attorney can provide guidance on the best approach for an individual’s specific circumstances and help ensure that the estate plan or trust is legally sound.

Why is Having a Will So Important?

A Will is one of the most important things everyone should have. Many people in our society don’t like talking about creating a Will because they do not like to think about their own mortality but having a Will can provide a number of important benefits while one is alive. In this article, we will look at some of the benefits of having a Will in place.

Control over the distribution of assets

One of the most important advantages of having a Will is that it gives you control over how your assets and property are distributed after your demise. Without a Will, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of your state and customary law, which may not align with your wishes.

Avoiding disputes among family members

Having a Will can also help prevent disputes among family members over who should receive certain assets. By clearly stating your wishes in a Will, you can help avoid misunderstandings and potential conflicts.

Protecting your children

If you have minor children, a Will can provide for their care in the event of your demise. You can name a guardian for your children and make arrangements for their care and financial support.

Saving time and money

Having a Will can also save your loved ones time and money by avoiding the need for probate court proceedings. Probate can be a lengthy and expensive process, but having a Will can help simplify the process and make it more efficient.

Ensuring charitable giving

If you have charitable intentions, a Will can ensure that your assets are distributed to the charities of your choice. This can help ensure that your legacy includes support for causes that are important to you.

Ensuring privacy

A Will can help ensure privacy in the distribution of your assets. Probate court proceedings are public record but having a Will can help keep the details of your estate distribution private.

Providing for pets

Finally, If you have pets, a will can provide for their care after your demise. You can name a caregiver for your pets and make financial arrangements to ensure that they are cared for.

Writing a Will is now made simple With ARM Trustees EasyWill, you can draft your own wishes written down from the conform of your home with your mobile device.

Interested in setting us a Will today? Contact us or send  us an email to [email protected] 

 

Meet the Cohort for the Inaugural ARM Labs Lagos Techstars Accelerator Program

ARM Labs Lagos Techstars Accelerator, a Lagos-based program to build early-stage African fintech and proptech startups, is delighted to announce its inaugural class.The cohort is made up of 10 Nigerian and 2 Kenyan startups, with 50% female CEOs. 

The selection process was quite rigorous. Beyond applying, the founders went through several interviews with members of the Techstars global team, and a final interview with Techstars Managing Director, Oyin Solebo and a 15-member screening committee. Some members of this committee included Ashim Octerra – Managing Partner, Octerra Capital, Olumide Soyombo – Voltron Capital, Charlene Chen – Former COO of AZA Finance among others. 

“Since the announcement that Techstars was coming to Lagos, there has been great anticipation about the selection of the inaugural cohort. After a competitive application process, we have chosen entrepreneurs who have the capacity to be exceptional founders, startups that have the potential to be industry leaders, and a cohort that is collectively capable of bringing innovation and change to Africa and the world,” said Techstars’ Managing Director, Oyin Solebo.

“The excitement of supporting an accelerator program lies in the potential to ignite the spark of innovation and watch as it transforms into a blazing fire of impact and change. As ARM partners with Techstars to launch an accelerator program that provides funding, mentorship, and access to networks and resources, our goal is to unearth the next set of Unicorns out of Africa,” said Ina Alogwu, Group Director, Digital Transformation, ARMHoldCo.

The founders officially began the 13-week program on the 5th of December 2022, and have had engagements with over 100 mentors and speakers including Tunde Kehinde – Co-founder & CEO, Lidya, Bode Abifarin- COO, Flutterwave, Fara Ashiru Jituboh – Founder & CEO, Okra and Amandine Lobelle – COO, Paystack.

“I am delighted about our selection into the Techstars family because traditionally, as an African, female, fintech founder, the odds are often stacked against you,” said Ebby Gatamu, Co-founder Cladfy. “This program has not only taught us to focus on the problem and our customers, but also led us to meet and interact with phenomenal people we’d otherwise possibly never have met.”

The accelerator’s investment of up to $120,000 in each startup, as well as training and a vast investor network will be significant in the growth and longevity of the cohorts. Demo day is set for the 16th of March 2023. 

“Being accepted into the Techstars accelerator was an unmistakable validation of peppa.io,” said Banky Alao, CEO of peppa.io, a fintech services company dedicated to payment protection. “The program has set us on a sure path to exponential growth and impact. Absolutely the best thing to happen to us.”

“Techstars’ presence in Lagos–Africa’s startup capital–further validates the continent as a rapidly evolving player in the global tech ecosystem. I could not be more excited to announce the names of the first 12 startups to be selected for the first ARM Labs Lagos Techstars Accelerator,” Solebo shares.

Below is the inaugural cohort of the ARM Labs Lagos Techstars Accelerator:

alphabloQ (Nairobi, Kenya)

alphabloQ is a real estate investment platform founded by Trevor Kimani and John Mbui. The startup’s mission is simple – to reduce the entry barrier for real estate investors by enabling investors to purchase a fraction of income-generating properties.

Peppa.io (Lagos, Nigeria)

peppa.io, founded byBanky Alao, Bridget Yadua-Soremekun and Emmanuel Obute, is making it safer to buy on social platforms for Africans through the use of payment protection.

CDcare (Lagos, Nigeria)

CDcare is making it easy for Africans to own gadgets, appliances, cars and more at zero interest, through smart installment plans. The company was founded by Tobi Odukoya and Deji Farohun.

Cladfy (Nairobi, Kenya)

Founded by Ebby Gatamu and Kibe John, Cladfy provides microfinance lenders with credit profiling, digitised loan management, and access to affordable, reliable financing.

Flick (Lagos, Nigeria)

Flick is building PayPal for Africa; enabling users to connect multiple bank accounts and pay directly from one source, making payments 7x faster. Ruth Olojedeand Dipo Gbadebo are the founders of the company.

Keble (Lagos, Nigeria)

Keble, founded by Emmanuel Oballa, Agulanna Josemaria, Adebisi Borokinni and Valentine Offiah, enables Africans at home and abroad to purchase fractional shares of global real estate for as low as $10.

Keza Africa (Lagos, Nigeria)

Keza is powering smartphone financing by enabling people to buy brand-new and certified pre-owned smartphones on a flexible payment plan. Keza Africa was founded by Aisha Hussaini.

Salad (Lagos, Nigeria)

Salad was founded by Chikodi Ukaiwe and Seunfunmi Omotunde and is providing employees with access to financial services and benefits beyond their monthly paycheck.

Sidebrief (Lagos, Nigeria)

Sidebrief simplifies the process of starting and scaling a business across borders, with its one-stop solution for registration, banking and regulatory compliance. The company was founded by Eunice Olopade, Abdulwaheed Yusuf and Usman Sotunde. 

Towntalk (Lagos, Nigeria)

Towntalk, founded by Folake Edun, Disun Vera-Cruz and Tomiwa Erinosho, is building Area!–a protection platform giving companies peace of mind when moving goods and people from point A to B, by providing real-time location and behavioural analytics, vehicle tracking and access to insurance providers.

Vittas (Lagos, Nigeria)

Vittas is a digital lender for healthcare providers, using machine learning, partnerships and embedded 3rd party SaaS solutions to provide loans for the purchase of medications and medical equipment. Vittas was founded by Sulav Singh, Collins Uche and Eric Okemmadu.

Oystr Finance (Lagos, Nigeria)

Founded by Ifedolapo Lawal, Olusola Onajobi and Omotayo Iginla, Oystr is democratizing credit in Africa. The company provides lenders with an infrastructure to help them launch low-risk micro-loan products, grow their portfolios and expand into new markets in less than 30 minutes.

About ARM

Established in 1994, ARM is a leading Nigerian diversified and integrated asset management group firm that offers wealth creation solutions and opportunities through a unique blend of traditional asset management and alternative investment services to retail, high net worth and institutional investors. ARM Labs is our fintech support programme designed to facilitate and encourage innovative growth in the financial services industry. ARM currently manages total assets of approximately N1.77 trillion (as of September 2022). www.arm.com.ng

About Techstars

The Techstars worldwide network helps entrepreneurs succeed. Founded in 2006, Techstars began with three simple ideas—entrepreneurs create a better future for everyone, collaboration drives innovation, and great ideas can come from anywhere. Now we are on a mission to enable every person on the planet to contribute to, and benefit from, the success of entrepreneurs. In addition to operating accelerator programs and venture capital funds, we do this by connecting startups, investors, corporations, and cities to help build thriving startup communities. Techstars has invested in more than 2,500 companies with a combined market cap of more than $220B. www.techstars.com