Organisers of the Ibadan Startup Fest (ISF) have unveiled plans to use the fourth edition of the annual technology and entrepreneurship conference to promote startup growth, innovation and job creation in emerging markets.
The event, scheduled for November 28 at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, was announced on Tuesday during a press conference at the Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan.
Speaking at the briefing, the Convener of ISF, Mr David Adeleke, said the festival had grown from an initial gathering of 100 participants four years ago into a major platform for promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation in Oyo State and beyond.
He attributed the growth to the support of the Oyo State Government, noting that its policies and investments had helped position Ibadan as an emerging technology hub with growing global recognition.
Adeleke said this year’s edition would focus on how individuals and businesses could deploy technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to improve productivity and expand their operations.
He explained that the conference was open to everyone, not just technology professionals, and would feature masterclasses, fireside chats and startup pitch sessions.
A gala and awards night would also recognise startups and individuals developing innovative solutions in Ibadan and other emerging markets.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on ICT, Mr Bayo Akande Jnr., commended the organisers for choosing to build the festival in Ibadan rather than Lagos, which he described as an increasingly saturated market.
Akande attributed Ibadan’s growing appeal to investments in infrastructure, including fibre-optic deployment and Independent Power Projects, as well as the success of businesses that began operations in the city.
He stressed the need for stronger public-private sector collaboration, explaining that while government was responsible for providing an enabling environment, the private sector remained central to driving innovation and business growth.
Also, the Chief Executive Officer of Cardify, Mr Tunde Buremo, said the company deliberately established its headquarters in Ibadan to demonstrate that business success was not determined by geographical location.
Buremo commended Governor Seyi Makinde for creating an environment conducive to business growth, adding that events such as the startup festival provide young people with alternative learning opportunities through masterclasses and interactive sessions.
He said the initiative would contribute to sustainable development by promoting innovation, education and youth development.
The organisers urged startup founders, investors, technology enthusiasts, students and members of the public to participate in the November 28 event and register through the official Ibadan Startup Fest website.
