Microsoft Corporation has offered financial support for the 2014 edition of DEMO Africa, an event where 40 tech based start-ups from across Africa are expected to pitch to potential investors.
The tech giant has taken up platinum sponsorship for the event that will hold in Lagos, Nigeria from September 22nd to 26th, marking a third year participation under the Microsoft4Afrika initiative.
“DEMO Africa has given a platform for investors to realize the enormous potential amongst African youth showcased through startups,” said Fernando de Sousa, GM Africa Initiatives at Microsoft.
De Sousa stressed Microsoft’s belief that investment decisions made today to support youth initiatives will determine Africa’s economic take-off to long-term growth prospects.
40 start-ups shortlisted by DEMO Africa will launch on the DEMO Africa stage where Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana will have the highest representation.
Commenting on the collaboration, Fernando de Sousa, GM Africa Initiatives at Microsoft, underscored the importance of innovations to the growing African economy.
will be determined by the investment decisions we make today in support of youth initiatives. ” As an organization that has operated in the continent for over 20 years,
DEMO Africa’s Executive Producer, Harry Hare acknowledged the support of Microsoft, noting that start-up entrepreneurs get really motivated by investor’s confidence.
Hare stated that Microsoft’s support was the “kind of support that assures us that the future is indeed bright for Africa,” adding that DEMO Africa is committed to contributing to “this success.”
The event is expected to attract top investors, tech acquisition specialists, IT buyers and media from across Africa and around the globe.
