Empowering entrepreneurs: 13 Benefit from food and agri-processing training

Thirteen budding entrepreneurs in the Greater Accra Region have been equipped with valuable and sustainable skills through an intensive training programme focused on food and agri-processing with the aim of enhancing their economic prospects and livelihoods.

The beneficiaries who progressed out of 20 participants were trained in product development, licensing, funding guidance, and networking opportunities to empower them to develop innovative business ideas.

The training programme which runs between August and December 2024 is expected to support these young entrepreneurs to establish firms that can create employment and support the local economy.

It was made possible through the Seeds for Success Incubation Programme, an initiative under the Food-Agro Business Hub (FAB Hub) located at New Town in the Greater Accra Region.

First cohort

The Executive Director of the Food-Agro Business Hub, Kobina Nketsia Yankey, in an interview with the media at the maiden graduation ceremony of the first cohort in Accra, said the training would help the participants to create jobs for themselves and others.

“This is our first incubation programme for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) under food and agribusiness industries and so, we want to make an impact in these sectors due to their impact in the country’s economy,” he said.

He said the food and agribusiness sector holds immense economic significance, owing to its accessibility and the creative opportunities it presents.

This sector, he said, has the potential to drive innovation, job creation, and economic growth, making it an attractive avenue for entrepreneurship and investment.

“We firmly believe that the food and agribusiness sector can serve as a powerful catalyst for empowerment, enabling individuals to harness their creative potential and establish sustainable livelihoods.

“By providing opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, we can unlock the full potential of this sector and drive positive change in our communities,” he said.

He said the establishment of this hub was poised to have a profound impact on the society, empowering individuals to establish far-reaching businesses that contribute meaningfully to the economy.

By providing a supportive ecosystem for food and agribusiness entrepreneurs, he said the hub aimed to foster innovation, drive economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of individuals and communities.

Comprehensive training

The executive director explained that the programme offered a comprehensive training, mentorship, funding guidance, and networking opportunities to empower young entrepreneurs develop innovative business ideas.

He said the initiative was designed to support early-stage startups in the food and agri-processing industries, including businesses in restaurants, catering, fast food, food vendors, food retailing, fast casual, fine dining, bartending and consumer packaged goods.

He said as a dedicated entrepreneurial hub, the FAB Hub provides a supportive ecosystem for startups and entrepreneurs, catering specifically to businesses in food production, processing, packaging, distribution, and hospitality.

He said the primary objective of establishing the FAB hub was to provide a supportive ecosystem that simplifies the process of starting and growing a business, thereby mitigating the challenges that often hinder the survival and success of early-stage enterprises.

He added that the hub aims to bridge the gap between business ideation and successful execution, ultimately reducing the mortality rate of startups and empowering entrepreneurs to thrive in a competitive market.

Pitch competition

The graduation ceremony was climaxed in a thrilling pitch competition, where Ophelia Asumeng's brand, Sammy Rich Enterprise (kose powder), emerged as the ultimate winner.

Caleb Ayisih's AbotsiHOT Original (kheebab) and Enyonam Akpabey's Meal DuJour Catering (cookies) secured the second and third positions, respectively, showcasing impressive entrepreneurial skills and innovative products.