Domestication of the Start-Up Act
Why State-Level Domestication Matters:
- Enables localized adaptation of the Act.
- Aligns national policies with the unique needs of states.
- Drives direct benefits for startups at the state level.
- Encourages inclusivity and equity across diverse ecosystems.
Current Challenges in Domestication
- Limited Progress: Only about four states have domesticated the Act..
- Startup Challenges: Outdated or inconsistent regulations. Double taxation. Inadequate infrastructure. Limited access to funding.
- Siloed Efforts: Lack of collaboration among nonprofits, public sector, and tech organizations..
- Insufficient Awareness: Many stakeholders unaware of the Act’s potential.
Risks of Fragmented Efforts
- Missed opportunities for synergy..
- Non-inclusive and ineffective policies..
- Failure to address unique state-specific challenges.
- Stunted growth of the local startup ecosystem.
Key Speaker Highlights
- 1. Theodore Longji (Lead, Domestication of the Startup Act in Plateau State & Director, ISN Hubs): He emphasized the importance of working closely with key government stakeholders for successful domestication. He also highlighted the need for awareness creation and a continuous review of the policy document as it progresses toward adoption.
- 2. Huzaifa Yakubu (President, YANAFRICA & CEO, Kirkira Innovation Hub): He stressed that domestication addresses state-specific challenges and is crucial for Katsina’s tech ecosystem to compete with regions like Lagos. He called for government-private sector collaboration and suggested the formation of a dedicated implementation team to oversee the Startup Act’s rollout.
- 3. Umar Mustapha Kutawa (CEO, LumiLab): He focused on the role of the startup ecosystem in driving domestication. He urged ecosystem players to take ownership of the process, emphasized the importance of involving the academic community, and called for sector-specific expertise to ensure inclusivity and relevance.
- 4. Abdulrahman (Project Manager, Domestication of the Startup Act Katsina): He addressed the major challenges startups face, such as outdated regulations, inconsistent policies, double taxation, infrastructure deficits, and limited funding opportunities. He underscored the need for partnerships and coordinated efforts to overcome fragmented approaches that hinder progress.
Opportunity for Collaboration
This conference;
- Bridges the gaps between stakeholders..
- Fosters partnerships among: Government representatives. Tech organizations. Civil society. Private sector..
- Ensures inclusivity, alignment, and shared ownership of the Act.
Vision for the Future
Unified Strategy for Domestication:
- Reflects the unique needs of startups.
- Drives:
- Economic growth.
- Innovation.
- Job creation.
- Positions states as hubs for entrepreneurship and digital transformation.
Together We Can
- Create impactful partnerships.
- Advocate for effective domestication in our states
- Build vibrant and inclusive startup ecosystems.
Gallery
The street campaign was a resounding success, raising awareness about the Startup Act and engaging local communities, businesses, and policymakers in advocating for its domestication in Katsina State. The event provided an interactive platform to educate the public on the Act’s benefits while fostering grassroots support.
