The University of Westminster (UK), in partnership with the University of Ghana and the University of Ilorin (Nigeria), has launched the African Entrepreneurship Competition (AEC), an innovative programme that brings together students from across the three institutions to develop entrepreneurial solutions to some of Africa's most pressing challenges.
Funded by TLG Capital, a leading Africa-focused investment firm co-founded by University of Westminster alumnus Zain Latif, the competition aims to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs by equipping students with the knowledge, skills, networks and mentorship needed to transform innovative ideas into sustainable ventures with lasting impact.
A key feature of the programme is its emphasis on student-led innovation. Participants are encouraged to identify challenges within their own communities and develop practical, scalable solutions that are grounded in local realities. The initiative seeks to move beyond externally imposed approaches and instead foster context-driven solutions designed by those who understand the challenges best.
The competition reflects a shared commitment by the partner universities to strengthen collaboration between African and British higher education institutions while creating meaningful opportunities for cross-cultural learning and innovation. By bringing together students with different perspectives, experiences and areas of expertise, the programme aims to demonstrate the power of international collaboration in addressing shared development challenges.
The competition comprises 18 multidisciplinary teams, each bringing together students from the three participating universities. Working across borders and cultures, participants will research, develop and pitch innovative business ventures addressing issues such as financial inclusion, healthcare, sustainable agriculture, sanitation, poverty alleviation and other priority development challenges across the continent.
All proposed ventures must align with at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing the programme's commitment to responsible innovation and sustainable development. Throughout the competition, students will participate in a series of workshops covering entrepreneurship, business model development, innovation, branding, marketing, teamwork and investor pitching. Teams will also receive guidance from experienced academic and industry mentors throughout the programme.
The competition will culminate in a hybrid grand final later this year, where shortlisted teams will present their ideas to an expert judging panel. Finalists will compete for recognition, cash prizes and further support to help transform their ideas into viable businesses.
The initiative also highlights the value of collaboration between academia and the private sector in developing entrepreneurial talent and strengthening innovation ecosystems across Africa. Through TLG Capital's support, students gain exposure to investment thinking and real-world business practices, helping to bridge the gap between academic learning and enterprise development.
The African Entrepreneurship Competition is expected to strengthen institutional partnerships between Ghana, Nigeria and the United Kingdom while creating new pathways for young innovators to develop solutions with both local relevance and global potential.
The University of Ghana remains committed to advancing innovation, entrepreneurship and strategic partnerships that contribute to sustainable development and prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions to society.
Dr Irene Brew-Riverson (second in from left), University of Westminster African Entrepreneurship competition lead, with some participants in Westminster Business School reception following a workshop