To strengthen Africa’s technology startup ecosystem, BlackCrest, a technology startup-focused law firm, in collaboration with Flutterwave, has created a support network to help start-up founders and entrepreneurs thrive in the tech ecosystem.

Speaking at the ‘Builders Cabal Meet and Chat’ organised by BlackCrest and Flutterwave, which brought together tech founders, investors, legal experts, operators and policymakers from across Africa, the Managing Partner of BlackCrest, Osita James, emphasised the importance of such gatherings in nurturing innovation and growth within the tech sector.

“Today’s programme is about creating a space for meet-and-chat networking, where founders and ecosystem players can interact, share experiences, and potentially form collaborations that will support the tech ecosystem’s growth,” James explained.

James said that without strong networks, many startups falter at critical stages, especially when seeking funding or scaling operations. He emphasised that many startups struggle because of a lack of practical knowledge about fundraising.

According to James, BlackCrest’s involvement is part of a broader mission to nurture a thriving startup ecosystem. “We are investing in these collaborations because if the ecosystem grows, everyone benefits — founders, investors, lawyers, and the economy at large.”

On the sidelines of a panel session, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Dare.io and Extents.ai, Dare Olufumilayo, addressed key challenges facing startups, noting that too many founders enter the tech space focused solely on securing investment, rather than building solutions that meet real needs.

Olufumilayo advised that instead of chasing funding, startups should prioritise getting their first customers and validating their market. He stressed that events like this collaboration are critical, offering new entrepreneurs access to seasoned founders who can share lessons learned from real-world experiences.

“Sometimes a single piece of advice at such gatherings can change the entire trajectory of a startup,” he added. Echoing similar sentiments, the Manager at Cafe One, Titilayo Bada, highlighted the role of creative hubs in supporting early-stage founders.

“We’re bridging the gap of lack and providing an empowering co-working environment where startups without substantial capital can meet, collaborate, and access a vibrant community of tech professionals across disciplines,” she said.