FirstBank Ghana is making a strong statement in support of entrepreneurship and small business development as it partners with the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GEF) in Accra.
The festival, scheduled to take place from 21 to 23 November at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel & Resort, promises to be a hub for innovation, collaboration, and business growth.
This year’s GEF coincides with Global Entrepreneurship Week and is expected to attract approximately 10,000 in-person participants while reaching over 10 million virtual viewers across the world. Organisers report that more than 60 speakers and 100 exhibitors from at least 70 countries will participate in the festival, making it one of the largest gatherings of entrepreneurs globally.
The theme for the 2025 festival, “The AI-Powered Entrepreneur: Creating a Sustainable Planet,” underscores the transformative role of artificial intelligence in modern business. Discussions during the event will focus on technology adoption, investment opportunities, and the challenges entrepreneurs face in Africa and beyond.
Victor Yaw Asante, Managing Director of FirstBank Ghana, highlighted the importance of AI tools in fostering business growth.
“This partnership reflects our deep interest in entrepreneurship and SME development. Tools driven by artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly important for businesses seeking to grow and compete.”
Victor Yaw Asante
The festival’s AI focus is designed to equip participants with practical insights into how automation, data analytics, and digital innovation can streamline operations and expand business opportunities. Workshops, seminars, and exhibitions will provide hands-on experiences to help SMEs leverage technology for sustainable growth.
Ghana Welcomes Global Investors and Innovators
President John Dramani Mahama recently confirmed Ghana as the host nation for this year’s GEF, emphasizing the country’s readiness to welcome global investors, innovators, policymakers, and business leaders.
GEF officials note that the festival is intended to foster collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and institutions. Dr Joy Francis, Director of Partnerships for GEF, said, “The festival aims to support innovation and expand opportunities for enterprise development.”
By hosting such a high-profile event, Ghana is positioning itself as a leading hub for entrepreneurship in Africa. The country’s growing start-up ecosystem, supportive regulatory environment, and strategic location make it an ideal destination for investors and innovators seeking to engage with emerging markets.
The three-day programme promises an exciting mix of activities designed to engage entrepreneurs at every level. Highlights include a trade fair, robotics and innovation exhibitions, a women’s congress, hackathons, business forums, awards ceremonies, arts showcases, and a closing concert.
These activities are intended to create networking opportunities, promote knowledge sharing, and celebrate entrepreneurial success. By showcasing innovative solutions and creative ideas, the festival will encourage participants to think differently and embrace new approaches to business challenges.
Empowering SMEs and Start-Ups
For FirstBank Ghana, the partnership goes beyond branding. It reflects a strategic commitment to empowering SMEs, which are a critical engine of economic growth. By supporting the GEF, the bank aims to provide entrepreneurs with access to funding, mentorship, and business tools that can help them scale operations and compete globally.
“Entrepreneurs are the backbone of any economy. Our involvement in the festival is part of our ongoing effort to support SMEs and equip them with the resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.”
Victor Yaw Asante
The festival also offers a platform for start-ups to connect with investors and industry leaders, potentially unlocking partnerships and funding opportunities. Participants will gain exposure to global best practices, innovative business models, and emerging trends in technology and finance.
The 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Festival will highlight Ghana’s expanding entrepreneurship ecosystem, demonstrating the country’s ability to host world-class business events. By bringing together global leaders and local innovators, the festival seeks to foster a culture of entrepreneurship, creativity, and sustainability.
As Ghana positions itself as a hub for innovation and enterprise development, collaborations like the one between FirstBank Ghana and GEF are critical. They provide the tools, networks, and exposure necessary for businesses to grow while contributing to the broader economic development of the country.
READ ALSO:SML Scandal: Court Sets Nov. 24 Arraignment for Ofori-Atta and 7 Others
