Sustainability and Access! African-Nordic Business Conference 2018
Guest post on behalf of Springboard
Sustainability and Access! Building new business ties between the Nordics and Africa
Strong growth and digitalization in Africa make it the perfect destination for Nordic firms and
organizations looking for dynamic new markets and opportunities. At the same time, promising
players in Africa can harness Nordic strengths in technology and sustainability for profitable
investments in areas touched by continental mega-trends, such as population growth,
urbanization, the rise of digital currencies and digital trade and growing infrastructure spending.
On November 22, 2018, Helsinki-based African Nordic Business Platform will bring together
players from Africa and the Nordics to discuss and identify sustainable opportunities and high-growth
ventures in Africa. African-Nordic Business Conference 2018 will host influential experts
as they discuss African and Nordic strengths and mutual business opportunities, share experiences
and insights, and explore practical guidelines for success on the ground.
“Africa is positioned to be the epicentre a range of new enterprises that will generate the kind of
strong growth we will see in few other parts of the world. However, Africa is a very diverse
continent and it is important for companies to understand the specific markets they are entering,”
says Nigerian-born Kingsley Ify, co-founder and CEO of Springboard African Nordic Business
Platform.
Development aid giving way to business growth
Themed Sustainability and Access! 2018 November conference will feature Nordic companies and
organizations already operating in Africa and companies looking for entry point into Africa as well
as movers and shakers on the African scene. Together they will offer an understanding of sectors
ripe for investment, share ideas on how to build sustainable business in Africa and review
entrepreneurial success stories, provide advice on tapping into new sources of financing and help
firms to improve their ground game on the continent.
“Africa is a continent where the role of development aid is fading, making room for growing
business development. Moreover, sustainable development will meet the demands of the mega
trends visible in Africa: rapid economic growth, urbanization and population growth. It’s the place
to do business, and where business can make a massive difference,” says Pasi Rinne, Chairman of
Gaia Consulting, a consultancy for sustainable businesses also operating in Africa. Rinne made the
comments during ANBC’s introductory event in September, 2016.
In addition to providing a roadmap for doing sustainable business in Africa, the event will offer
opportunities to develop existing networks build potentially fruitful new partnerships, particularly
in Africa. Participants will also gain access to important decision-makers in government, the
private sector, international organizations, consultants, advisors and the ecosystem builders.
About Springboard Afro-Nordic Business Platform
Springboard is an independent company of specialists offering a range of business-to-business
services. We advise clients – both African and Nordic – on strategic decisions which have
implications for business development and investment opportunities. We bring together
professionals from diverse disciplines and with complementary skills. The depth of our expertise
allows us to take on complex and strategic projects in Africa. Our clients trust us to help realise
their visions.