Ep 230 Insights on Impact Investing with Thelma Ekiyor and Distinguished Guests

The Silicon Valley Podcast

LinkedIn Profile: Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke

Episode Summary

In this episode, we dive into the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing (NPO) with distinguished panel members Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, Ms. Ayodele Olojede, Ms. Elizabeth Oguegbu, and Mr. Tola Adekunle-Johnson. They share insights into the NPO's objectives, strategies, and initiatives aimed at fostering job creation and economic growth in Nigeria.

Key Questions and Topics Discussed Introductions

• Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke: Chairperson of the NPO, providing a brief overview of her role and background.
• Ms. Ayodele Olojede: Representative from Wema Bank and NPO Implementing Committee member, sharing her expertise and involvement.
• Ms. Elizabeth Oguegbu: Representative from Access Bank and NPO Implementing Committee member, introducing her role and contributions.

Background and History of NPO

• The origin and evolution of the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing.
• The role and significance of the NPO in Nigeria's economic landscape.

Coordination with Public Office

• How the NPO collaborates with the Vice President's office to streamline efforts.
• The integration of public and private sector initiatives.

Organizational Goals and Strategies

• Primary objectives of the NPO and the strategies in place to achieve them.
• Key focus areas and intended outcomes.

Pipeline of Companies and Resource Needs

• Developing a robust pipeline of companies.
• Resources and support required to scale up job creation efforts.

50% Allocation to Women Recipients

• Definition and criteria for women recipients (founders, co-founders, advisors).
• Long-term goals and impacts of this allocation criterion.

Grants and Requirements

• Conditions and potential matching investment requirements tied to grants.
• Efficiency in deploying grants to ensure timely job creation.

Sector Focus and Decision Process

• Specific sectors targeted for capital deployment.
• Rationale behind the selection of these sectors.

Potential for Model Replication

• Possibilities of other African countries adopting a similar model.
• Expected outcomes and benefits for the broader African continent.

Investor Partnerships

• Opportunities for Silicon Valley investors to partner with and invest in the NPO initiative.
• Ways to foster collaboration and mutual growth.

Growth and Expansion Strategies

• Plans for companies to expand into new markets.
• Strategies for growth and international expansion.

Governance and Utilization of Funds

• Assurance mechanisms for proper utilization of grant money.
• Governance structures tied to financial assistance.

Funding Application Process

• Information companies need to provide to secure funding.
• Criteria and eligibility requirements for applicants.

Beyond Financial Assistance

• Additional support provided to companies beyond funding.
• Resources and mentorship available to aid business growth.

Role of Technology and Innovation

• Importance of technology and innovation in the NPO's investment strategy.
• Future trends and opportunities.