INNOVATION INSPIRED BY POVERTY: Why African Founders Jump from Idea to Idea
In Africa, the startup landscape is often shaped by unique challenges—poverty, limited access to capital, and societal expectations. Many founders are not simply chasing dreams of wealth but are on a relentless pursuit of survival. This reality paints a vivid picture of why founders often jump from one idea to the next. As a founder and the leader of Founders Hub Africa , I interact daily with entrepreneurs who embody resilience and creativity. They face insurmountable odds, yet they innovate, hoping to find sustainable solutions for their challenges and those of their communities. The Weight of Responsibility Unlike in more developed ecosystems where founders have the privilege to focus singularly on building their startups, African entrepreneurs often juggle multiple roles. Many have families depending on them—not just immediate ones but extended networks of siblings, parents, and relatives who rely on their support. When survival is the priority, long-term planning becomes a luxury.