UGBS NEST and NEIP Forge Strategic Partnership to Drive Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation

In a bold step toward deepening its impact on Ghana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) Innovation and Incubation Hub, recently hosted a high-level delegation from the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP). The visit, led by NEIP Deputy CEO Joan Selasie Ahiawordor, Esq., marked the beginning of a strategic partnership that aims to unlock the potential of youth-led innovation across the country.

The NEIP team was warmly welcomed by Prof. Albert Ahenkan, Acting Dean of UGBS and Head of the Department for Public Administration and Health Services Management, along with Prof. George Acheampong, Director of the UGBS Innovation Hub, and other members of the NEST management team.

The engagement served as a platform for dialogue around collaborative efforts that can bridge the gap between academic entrepreneurship and national innovation goals. Central to these discussions was a shared vision of empowering young entrepreneurs through capacity building, funding, mentorship, and sustainable support systems.

During the visit, the NEIP delegation outlined key pillars of President John Dramani Mahama’s Adwumawura Programme, an ambitious initiative designed to support at least 10,000 youth-led businesses across Ghana. Key components of the program include:

Tailored business training for skill development

Access to funding and investment support

Market linkages to boost product and service reach

Business advisory services and mentorship

The delegation also highlighted complementary NEIP initiatives such as:

The Graduate Entrepreneurs Empowerment Programme (GEEP), focused on bridging the academic-to-market transition.

The Student Entrepreneurship Initiative (SEI), which fosters entrepreneurial thinking at the tertiary level

UGBS NEST: Catalyzing Innovation Through Collaboration;

As a pioneering academic incubator, UGBS NEST reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation through strategic partnerships. Our Hub continues to provide:

Startup incubation and acceleration for student and alumni ventures

Evidence-based business development services to enhance scalability

Access to networks of mentors, industry experts, and investors

Prof. George Acheampong, Director of UGBS NEST, captured the essence of this synergy, stating:

“By aligning our academic resources with NEIP’s national initiatives, we can create a powerful ecosystem that transforms innovative ideas into thriving businesses. This partnership is not just about supporting startups—it’s about shaping the future of Ghana’s economy.”

A major highlight of the meeting was the alignment between both institutions in addressing youth unemployment through entrepreneurial empowerment. Discussions extended to include TVET collaborations, ensuring that the benefits of such programs are inclusive and accessible to young people from all educational backgrounds.

The UGBS Innovation Hub and NEIP are calling on students, alumni, corporate leaders, and development partners to join this movement. Whether as mentors, investors, or collaborators, there are numerous ways to get involved in building a vibrant entrepreneurial future for Ghana.

This is more than a partnership—it’s a movement for national transformation through innovation and entrepreneurship. At UGBS NEST, we believe the future belongs to those who create it. And with the support of forward-thinking partners like NEIP, we are confident that the next wave of Ghanaian entrepreneurs is ready to rise.