InnovaLab GW, which was founded by young professionals, is the first innovation accelerator in Guinea-Bissau. Through its programs, training, and services, it promotes the development of the country's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
InnovaLab GW is a start-up accelerator founded by young Guinea-Bissau professionals Adulai Bary -a computer engineer with years of experience currently serving as its CEO- and Claudinecia Cabral -a senior project manager and accountant serving as the accelerator’s Resources and Programs Manager.
Since its inception in 2016, it has worked to foster the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting entrepreneurs and startups in the fields of education, agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure. Its aim is "to [contribute] to the achievement of sustainable development in Africa, starting with Guinea-Bissau," it says on LinkedIn.
Through its co-working space, the accelerator offers a collaborative working environment where people meet, work, network, share ideas and collaborate on projects. Accessible at any time of the day, these fully-equipped spaces can accommodate up to 15 people and offer free Internet access.
They are designed for small and medium-sized businesses, freelancers, home workers, start-ups, digital designers, and other digital professionals whose work doesn't fit into a traditional office model.
InnovaLab GW also provides entrepreneurs with the coaching, tools, resources, and network to help them meet the myriad challenges that lie ahead. It offers mentoring and management training services to startups and new businesses.
It also connects entrepreneurs and business leaders with legal experts and other specialists and organizes exchange events between entrepreneurs from various sectors.
With the help of its partners, including AfriLabs, Seedstars, Yali Network, Next Einstein Forum, and Global Entrepreneurship Network, InnovaLab GW has created over 200 direct jobs, organized more than 300 events, and helped create more than 20 startups.
Melchior Koba
