Two Weeks to Go: AI & Big Data Expo Returns to Amsterdam | 24–25 September 2025, RAI Amsterdam
September 12, 2025
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RAI Amsterdam, Netherlands 24–25 September 2025 https://www.ai-expo.net/europe/ AI & Big Data Expo, part of TechEx Europe, will soon take place in Amsterdam this September, bringing together more than 8,000 attendees, 200 exhibitors and 200 speakers for two days of enterprise technology strategy and practical insight. Co-located with four additional events – Cyber Security & Cloud Expo, Digital Transformation Expo, Data Centre Expo and IoT Tech Expo – the series offers senior technical leaders a comprehensive view of the technologies shaping enterprise transformation, all within one venue. Hear from Enterprise Leaders at the Forefront of Change The event will welcome to the stage senior executives and AI leaders from some of the world’s most recognisable brands. Confirmed speakers include: John Hearty, Vice President, Head of AI Governance, Mastercard Parul Mishra, Global Vice President AI Assistants and AI Productivity, IBM Alexander Gee, Director of Machine Learning (Safety), Reddit, Inc. Dr. Satyajit Wattamwar, Head of Data Science, Unilever Edo Haveman, Head of Public Policy Benelux Region, Meta Rui Costa, Data & Machine Learning Team Leader, IKEA Altaf Patel, VP, Global Head of Business Intelligence and AI for BI capability, PepsiCo Gozde Toral Gursoy, Digital Strategy Director, Philips Kay Jaiswal, Global Head of Data Management & Analytics, ING Azin Emami, Head of AI Engineering, Nordea The line-up of speakers covers a diverse range of industries – from retail and consumer goods to finance, logistics, healthcare and energy. Each speaker will share real insights and lessons learnt from navigating complex digital transformation programmes and driving enterprise change. Full speaker lineup: https://www.ai-expo.net/europe/speakers/ Agenda Aligned with Current Market Challenges The agenda will address the pressing questions faced by CIOs, CTOs and technology leaders today. With enterprise teams under pressure to deliver measurable outcomes from digital investment, sessions will focus on real-world lessons, including: Scaling AI for Transformation – Challenges and Solutions – This panel examines the technical and organizational challenges in scaling AI, including data complexity and infrastructure. Automating the AI Lifecycle – From Idea to Impact– Learn how leading teams are using low-code tools, orchestration platforms, and workflow automation to shorten iteration cycles. Building a Digital & AI Strategy — From Data Challenges to Business Impact – Gain practical ideas on stakeholder alignment, roadmaps, and governance Snowflake Workshop: Building Agentic Application with Anthropic in Snowflake – Learn how to design and deploy intelligent data agents using Snowflake Cortex. Responsible Use of Large Language Models– This panel brings together industry leaders and AI experts to explore the opportunities and challenges of scaling LLMs across enterprises. With AI and Big Data high on today’s agenda, attendees can expect practical takeaways on building the right engineering culture and data-driven strategy to address challenges of scale, regulation, and competitiveness. View the agenda: https://www.ai-expo.net/europe/agenda/sector-deep-ai-applications-disruption/ A Crossroad of Enterprise Technology With five leading technology events convening simultaneously, TechEx Europe provides attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the interdependencies of security, data, AI, infrastructure and IoT. For technology decision-makers, the ability to benchmark across these areas in a single setting is a significant advantage – ensuring strategies are not built in isolation but as part of a cohesive digitalisation roadmap. Designed for Senior Technology Leaders With CIOs, CTOs, Chief Architects, Engineering Leaders and Directors of Artificial Intelligence in attendance, the event is positioned as a key opportunity for networking and peer-to-peer exchange. Participants will leave with: Strategic frameworks, tested in enterprise contexts Insights into technical architectures driving resilience and scale Lessons from failures as well as successes New approaches to leadership and organisational alignment Access to new enterprise technologies and solutions across the expansive exhibition floor Event Details Dates: 24–25 September 2025 Location: RAI Amsterdam, Euroaplein 24, 1078 GZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands Tickets: https://www.ai-expo.net/europe/ Co-located Events: Digital Transformation Expo, Cyber Security & Cloud Expo, AI & Big Data Expo, Data Centre Expo, IoT Tech Expo Media & Registration Information Media outlets, tech publications and journalists are invited to attend and cover AI & Big Data Expo Europe 2025. Press passes are available upon request and include access to all five conference tracks, speaker sessions and the exhibition floor. Request media accreditation and access to the conference by emailing: enquiries@ai-expo.net Media Contact: Chloe Palmer Senior Marketing Manager enquiries@ai-expo.net Follow AI & Big Data Expo on LinkedIn, X , Instagram and Facebook for the latest event updates. Disclaimer – This article is a work of original content created for public relations and informational purposes only. It may be published across multiple digital platforms with the full knowledge and consent of the author/publisher. All images, logos, and referenced names are the property of their respective owners and used here solely for illustrative or informational purposes. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or modification of this article without prior written permission from the original publisher is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to other content is purely coincidental or used under fair use policy with proper attribution. Read Also: Global AI Leaders Converge in Cairo to Set Momentum Towards Ai Everything MEA Egypt 2026
Coral Reynolds: Bold Journey from Project Management to Global Spirits Success
September 11, 2025
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Few rivals in a notoriously name- and ancestry-controlled market have as much vision and will as Coral Reynolds. With a solid project management skill set and an unbreakable determination to succeed, she is totally rewriting the formula for being a successful contemporary spirits industry entrepreneur. Her journey, begun out of a fact-based curiosity and powered by intelligent heads, has made Grand Matriarch Distilling Company a worldwide brand, a company establishing through innovation, and not tradition. She took the gamble of prioritizing quality production and export potential over taking the tourist-enticing route most distilleries follow. Along with financial success, her transformational ability from a 25-liter still in a home facility to operating a production factory that makes several different brands of vodka is something she is proud of for her ambition, adaptability, and vision. She is a systems thinker and distiller. Her extensive background in the management of large building schemes has conditioned her careful and thoughtful approach, and this is serving her well with the assignment of ambitious targets, working in conditions of ambiguity, and building solid foundations for sustained growth. She made the most of the time to streamline processes and build community relations even during a global pandemic. Her success is attributable to a leader who bases her or his roots on humility, whose love is family tradition, and whose commitment is lifelong learning. Coral Reynolds is an epitome of visionary leadership with determination and passion in molding a bold vision into a brand that touches generations and spans the globe. The Spark of Innovation The genesis of Grand Matriarch Distilling Company began with a simple curiosity about the Tasmanian Whiskey Trail. Understanding that whiskey distillation requires considerable expertise, Reynolds pragmatically chose to begin with vodka. In 2018, she purchased her first still – a modest 25-liter unit that served as her laboratory for experimentation. “I started experimenting with recipes until I got the smooth flavour family and friends liked.” she explains. This methodical approach, rooted in her project management background, involved countless hours of refinement and testing. The positive feedback from her inner circle provided the validation needed to transform a hobby into a business venture. The scaling process presented unique challenges that tested Reynolds’ adaptability. Moving from a 25-liter still to a 200-liter unit, and subsequently to two 400-liter stills, required not just financial investment but a complete reimagining of operations. “It was like graduating from operating a wheelbarrow to an aircraft carrier,” she describes the learning curve. Today, Grand Matriarch’s product range encompasses nine distinctive flavors: Espresso, Vanilla, Butterscotch, Kiwifruit, Mango, Passionfruit, Pineapple, Berry, and Spiced Apple. Each flavor represents hours of experimentation and refinement, reflecting Reynolds’ commitment to quality and innovation. Strategic Vision and Global Expansion Reynolds’ business philosophy centers on manufacturing excellence rather than hospitality tourism. While many distilleries focus on cellar door experiences and on-site restaurants, Grand Matriarch has prioritized national and international expansion from its inception. This strategic decision has positioned the company for rapid growth in global markets. The company’s international presence has grown significantly, with Reynolds and her team exhibiting at prestigious events including the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair, Kempinski Aftertaste, and the China Food and Drinks Fair 2025 in Chengdu. These platforms have provided invaluable opportunities to showcase their products to international audiences and receive positive feedback that has bolstered confidence in their expansion strategy. Central to this global vision is Reynolds’ son, who serves as a company director based in China, managing marketing and strategic direction. This family partnership represents more than just business convenience it embodies his deeper motivation for building the company as a legacy for her son, daughter, and granddaughter. Navigating Challenges with Resilience The COVID-19 pandemic, which devastated many businesses, provided the Grand Matriarch with unexpected advantages. Being in its startup phase, the company wasn’t yet dependent on extensive travel or complex supply chains. Reynolds leveraged the lockdown period to focus entirely on production refinement and local market development. “We provided a discount rate to our local customers who supported us by buying local.” she explains. This community-focused approach during uncertain times not only sustained the business but also built a loyal customer base that would support future growth. The pandemic period also allowed the team to establish systems and processes that would facilitate expansion once restrictions are lifted. Her project management background has proven invaluable in setting and achieving ambitious targets. “Having a project management background, I always set stretch targets for the company, and we were able to meet these.” she notes. However, she candidly admits to learning from early mistakes, particularly her tendency to purchase equipment well in advance of needs – a habit rooted in her procurement and risk management experience that she has learned to moderate. Recognition and Achievement The validation for Reynolds’ vision came in 2022 when Grand Matriarch won a gold medal at the World Vodka Awards. This international recognition represented more than just industry acknowledgment it confirmed that the quality and craftsmanship Reynolds had been developing could compete with established global brands. She reflected that the award was a significant coup for the team and a strong affirmation that what they were building was truly impactful. The recognition has opened doors to new markets and partnerships while enhancing their credibility in international negotiations. Balancing Success and Life Despite the demands of running a growing international business, she has managed to maintain perspective on what truly matters. Living in the beautiful Bega Valley, she makes time to “stop and smell the roses daily and to be thankful for the many blessings I have in life.” This appreciation for natural beauty and life balance reflects the wisdom earned through decades of juggling multiple responsibilities. The integration of family into the business structure has created a unique dynamic where professional growth and personal legacy intertwine. With her son managing international operations and strategic direction, Reynolds can focus on what she loves most the manufacturing and operational aspects of the business. Leadership Philosophy and Advice
Most Transformational Leader Making An Impact In 2025
September 11, 2025
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Most Transformational Leader Making An Impact In 2025 This edition highlights a visionary leader redefining excellence through innovation, resilience, and people-centered leadership. This edition celebrates Coral’s remarkable journey of creating meaningful change, inspiring growth, and leaving a lasting impact on industries, communities, and the future of leadership itself. Quick highlights Quick reads
Global AI Leaders Converge in Cairo to Set Momentum Towards Ai Everything MEA Egypt 2026
September 11, 2025
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Exclusive launch event at Sultan Hussein Kamel Palace, Cairo, highlights Egypt’s AI ambitions and global collaborations ahead of Ai Everything MEA Egypt 2026 Wednesday, 10 September 2025, Cairo: Following the show’s announcement last week, Ai Everything Middle East & Africa Egypt marked its first milestone moment in Cairo with an exclusive launch event at the iconic Sultan Hussein Kamel Palace. Organised by GITEX GLOBAL and hosted by Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), in strategic partnership with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA), the launch event served as a precursor to the region’s most empowering global AI tech week, set to take place from 11-12 February 2026. The invite-only launch event convened senior government officials, global tech executives, and the nation’s most dynamic AI innovators, alongside media, tech, and startup ecosystem guests, underscoring Egypt’s ambition to unlock $42.7 billion in annual AI value by 2030 while positioning Cairo as the global hub of AI collaboration. The discussions explored the pivotal role of Ai Everything MEA Egypt in aligning international expertise with Egypt’s National AI Strategy 2025-30, spotlighting the country’s competitive strengths in outsourced digital services, semiconductors, electronic design manufacturing, public sector transformation, startup innovations and attracting global investments. Opening the event, Eng. Ahmed Alzaher, CEO, ITIDA stated: “AI today is no longer a trend; it is a core driver of economic and societal transformation. Hosting Ai Everything MEA Egypt is part of Egypt’s mission to remain at the forefront of the global technology revolution. This summit cements our position as a regional hub for innovation and trusted global partner in the AI era.” Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre, CEO of KAOUN International, and global organiser of GITEX and Ai Everything, further added: “AI is going to be the backbone of economic transformation, human capital growth and supremacy for Egypt, and this AI renaissance has brought Ai Everything MEA here. The show’s mission is very clear. We are here to empower the stakeholders, be it the private or public sector, as well as the youth, the talent and the startups. We are very honoured to work with the stakeholders in Egypt, giving us the chance to co-create and curate the AI future for the young talent, the businesses, the SMEs and the industries of Egypt.” H.E. Dr. Amr Talaat, Egypt’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, shared: “Egypt’s selection to host AI Everything Middle East & Africa Egypt reflects the international community’s recognition of our country’s rapid progress and leapfrogging steps in artificial intelligence.” “This momentum stems not only from the efforts of the Ministry, but from the collective contributions of Egypt’s entire ICT community. Since launching our first National AI Strategy in 2019, Egypt has advanced 46 places in the global AI Readiness Index. Earlier this year, we launched the second edition of the National AI Strategy, built on six key pillars: expanding access to computing resources for startups and SMEs; ensuring robust data governance; developing AI-powered systems to drive sectoral growth; building digital skills as the cornerstone of the strategy; raising public awareness around AI opportunities and risks; and establishing the regulatory and legislative framework to enable a thriving AI ecosystem.” The evening concluded with a panel discussion on ‘Egypt’s AI Future’, where industry leaders from IBM, HPE, Deloitte Innovation Hub, Widebot AI, Intella and Plug & Play Tech Centre explored the opportunities and challenges facing Egypt’s AI ecosystem, from scaling startups to strengthening public–private partnerships. Marwa Abbas, GM and Technology Leader Northeast Africa, IBM, shared, “IBM is pleased to be part of Ai Everything MEA Egypt, where we are showcasing how IBM watsonx and our AI and hybrid cloud capabilities are helping clients in Egypt and across the region to accelerate their digital transformation. Through real-world use cases and industry collaboration, we are demonstrating how AI can drive productivity, innovation, and sustainable growth” Mohamed Wasfy, Country Manager, Egypt, HPE, reiterated: “At HPE, our engineers are focused on designing very energy efficient AI systems. Among the top ten most energy efficient systems in the world, three are from HPE. We bring to the market ready-made, ready-to-deploy AI systems that can generate ROI in days, not months or years.” Ahmed Salem, COO & Engineering, AI & Data Lead, Deloitte Innovation Hub, said: “We’ve rolled our AI platforms across 200,000 users. We started to look at alliances, partnerships, other platforms, hyperscalers for reinventing software driven AI.” Mohamed Nabil, CEO of WideBot AI, creator of the most accurate Large Language Model (LLM) in Arabic; and Nour Taher, CEO of Intella, the groundbreaking AI startup that recently made headlines for its $12.5 million Series A funding; both shared insights on raising the global competitiveness of Egyptian startups as well as the recent successes in attracting funding and scaling business. The insightful discussions were moderated by Karima El Hakim, Country Director in Egypt and Director in Africa, Plug & Play Tech Centre, Cairo’s leading startup hub. A Global AI Tech Week Accelerating Egypt’s AI Ambitions Ai Everything MEA Egypt 2026, hosted by Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in strategic partnership with ITIDA and powered by GITEX GLOBAL, will convene leading AI enterprises, startups, investors, and policymakers from 60 countries at the NCIEC in Cairo. The event features a line-up of acclaimed international AI experts and leaders sparking thought-provoking discussions on building next-gen AI infrastructures and responsible scaling, alongside frontier showcases in AI, semiconductors, cybersecurity, digital health, fintech, and more. The show also hosts one of the largest startup and investor gatherings, setting the stage to accelerate global tech partnerships, attract investment, and announce Cairo’s role as the epicentre of AI innovation in the Middle East and Africa. For more information, access the website: https://www.aieverythingmea.com About Ai Everything Middle East & Africa Egypt 2026 The inaugural Ai Everything Middle East & Africa Egypt, taking place from 11-12 February 2026 at NCIEC, Cairo, is organised by GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest tech, AI, and startup show, and hosted by the Ministry of Communications & Information Technology (MCIT) in Egypt, in strategic partnership with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency
Leading Tech Brands Drive Future Digital Economy to Support Nigeria’s US $1 Trillion 2030 Vision at West Africa’s Largest Tech, AI & Startup Show
September 11, 2025
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Global tech leaders, including IBM, Meta, and MTN join GITEX NIGERIA 2025, driving tech opportunities that contribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda across talent development & digital infrastructure Abuja, Nigeria – 13 August 2025: Nigeria has risen to the forefront of Africa’s digital economy with a powerful ecosystem that is both homegrown and resilient – fuelled by government initiatives, global tech enterprises, and a thriving startup ecosystem; propelling Nigeria’s future with tech opportunities in talent development and digital infrastructure to help achieve the goal of US$1 trillion economy by 2030. Central to Nigeria – and Africa’s – ambitions of digital sovereignty lie in the opportunity to upskill, operate and expand grassroots talent and organisations. Perfectly timed to support these ambitions is the inaugural edition of GITEX NIGERIA which will act as a convergence point for key local and international decision makers, not only in tech but across multiple sectors embracing digital transformation. Held under the patronage of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, GITEX NIGERIA premieres across Abuja and Lagos from 1-4 September 2025. It is supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The event is endorsed by Lagos State Government, and organised by KAOUN International, the global organiser of GITEX events. A high-level Government Leadership & AI Summit in Abuja takes place on the opening day on 1 September to forge a united future for international leaders driving the growth of digital infrastructure, AI, and innovation. Hon. Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy for the Federal Republic of Nigeria, said: “Building and deploying AI infrastructure and solutions for Nigeria and Africa is not only a technological advancement, but also a chance to redefine our place in the global digital economy. Our success in delivering on this will ensure that we evolve from being passive consumers of AI to becoming net producers of talent and solutions that can compete and thrive internationally. As the global tech community turns its attention to Nigeria at GITEX NIGERIA, we must seize this opportunity to demonstrate what is possible in our tech ecosystem, showcase the depth of our innovation and the boldness of our ideas.” The GITEX NIGERIA programme then transitions to Lagos, headlining across two locations from 3-4 September. The Eko Hotel Convention Centre hosts the GITEX NIGERIA Tech Expo & Future Economy Conference, while the Landmark Centre welcomes the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival. Combined, it will be West Africa’s largest gathering of technology visionaries, industry leaders, and decision-makers overseeing digital transformation of non-tech sectors. H.E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State Federal Republic of Nigeria, said: “Lagos is and continues to be a city that facilitates progress. As we collectively build our city into the preferred destination for innovation and digital solutions, GITEX NIGERIA’s shared ambition will place Lagos at the heart of Africa’s digital future.” Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General/CEO, National Information Technology Development Agency, said: “We are committed to cultivating a Nigerian digital ecosystem that becomes a global benchmark for equitable Al advancement; one that is synonymous with inclusive access to Al technologies, infrastructure, and solutions. GITEX NIGERIA is more than an event, it is the cornerstone for Africa’s digital renaissance and a catalyst for developing world-class Al infrastructure which promotes scalability, sovereignty & global competitiveness.” Global Tech Giants Converge in Nigeria to Enable Digital Growth Opportunities With a burgeoning big tech landscape, international names have flocked to Nigeria and other African markets to nurture talent, support with infrastructure or provide localised solutions for existing services. Whether driven by African diaspora or the promise of opportunity, international presence is expanding, often in the form of multi-sector, public-private partnerships. As IBM operated by MIBB affirms its presence in West Africa, it continues to build on IBM’s long-standing legacy of enabling Nigeria’s digital transformation. Through local engagement and ecosystem-driven growth, the focus remains on delivering impactful solutions across key sectors such as banking, telecoms, government, and education. Vishnu Taimni, General Manager of IBM operated by MIBB said: “Nigeria is a strategic priority for IBM operated by MIBB, anchored in decades of trusted partnerships across public and private sectors. As the country accelerates its digital agenda, GITEX NIGERIA offers a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration and reaffirm our commitment to co-creating technologies that empower industries and communities for the future.” A hub for international investors to discover African startups Already Nigeria’s undisputed innovation hub, Lagos – home to 23 of the country’s 28 fastest-growing companies, according to the Financial Times – simultaneously hosts the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival. It will be Nigeria’s largest and most globally diverse investor programme and curated meetings between startups, investors, corporates, industry leaders, and prospective partners. To capitalise on the transformative impact of GITEX NIGERIA on Lagos’ startup ecosystem, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will present its pan-African timbuktoo initiative at the event. The largest of its kind in the world, timbuktoo brings public and private capital together at a global scale to support and empower startups solving macro challenges facing the planet, and humanity. The event runs with support from partners AWS, Cisco, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Kaspersky, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Federal Ministry of Youth Development and Space42. For more information, news and updates on GITEX NIGERIA, please visit gitexnigeria.ng. To access our digital press kit, click here Press office contact: press@gitexnigeria.ng Disclaimer – This article is a work of original content created for public relations and informational purposes only. It may be published across multiple digital platforms with the full knowledge and consent of the author/publisher. All images, logos, and referenced names are the property of their respective owners and used here solely for illustrative or informational purposes. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or modification of this article without prior written permission from the original publisher is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to other content is purely coincidental or used under fair use policy with proper
Nigerian entrepreneurs are the architects of the digital future says Lagos State Deputy Governor as GITEX NIGERIA champions national & regional startup ecosystems
September 11, 2025
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GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival cast a unique global spotlight on the profound influence of emerging entrepreneurs across Nigeria & Africa Supernova Challenge finals also headlined the third & final day of GITEX NIGERIA 2025 – Curacel claimed $10,000 first prize Lagos, Nigeria – 08 September 2025: The inaugural GITEX NIGERIA concluded in a tremendous fashion this Thursday in Lagos, as West Africa’s largest tech, AI, and startup show cast a spotlight on the influence of emerging local and regional entrepreneurs. Held under the patronage of H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, GITEX NIGERIA took place across Abuja and Lagos from 1-4 September. Supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the event was endorsed by Lagos State Government and organised by KAOUN International, global producer of GITEX events. Taking place in Nigeria’s commercial and innovation capital, the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival showcased the strength and depth of an ecosystem through which talent development pathways and digital infrastructure projects are accelerating Nigeria’s US$1 trillion economy ambition. Deputy Governor of Lagos State, H.E. Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, hailed its immediate impact at the national level, declaring: “GITEX NIGERIA sends an inspirational message to every Nigerian: that many positive things are transpiring across our country and opportunities are here. For every attendee at the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival, this has been immediately apparent. We see many young citizens and entrepreneurs, with enormous innovative minds, making a real difference – generating interest, raising capital, and overcoming challenges by bringing their ideas to life and delivering tangible impact. Such outcomes are crucial because they show that, as the world evolves, so too does Nigeria – as a nation of leaders, innovators, and architects of digital future we envisage.” Central to Nigeria – and Africa’s – digital sovereignty is upskilling and expanding grassroots talent and organisations. As the largest regional showcase of its kind and a convergence point for local and international stakeholders embracing digital transformation, the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival was perfectly timed to support this mandate. Over 650 startups from 27+ countries and 29 different industries participated with a shared vision of co-creating tech architecture across multiple sectors undergoing continent-wide digitisation. Its strategic programme included Nigeria’s most globally diverse investor programme, innovation hub showcases, and curated meetings between startups, investors, corporates, governments, industry leaders, and prospective partners. Speaking after the recent announcement of funding 75 new research projects for startups, researchers, corporates and Nigerian diaspora for digital innovation, the Hon. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria said: “The opportunity and responsibility lies with all of us to build a resilient, innovative, and globally connected ecosystem, one that ensures that Nigeria not only keeps pace with the digital future but also shapes it. To all enterprises, corporates, startups, academia, and partners, we offer a transparent and accelerated path to collaboration, investment, and cooperation with Nigeria. Let us accelerate the development of the digital economy not only for Nigeria, but for Africa and the world.” Supporting the multi-sector disruption ranging from education and agriculture through manufacturing and energy, startup participation was bolstered by hundreds of organisations brought by local engagement and international innovation hub partnerships. Within Nigeria, NITDA, Lagos State, FATE Foundation, Co-creation Hub Africa (CcHUB), and Orange Corners were among the partners, while internationally, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), American Business Council (ABC) contributed. Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General/CEO, NITDA, said: “Across Africa and around the globe, future-oriented partnerships are the lifeblood of thriving startup ecosystems and digital economies. By uniting ambitious organisations from instrumental sectors in the emerging digital economy, we demonstrate how collaboration fuels innovation, accelerates transformation, and empowers Nigerians and Africans to shape their digital future.” Universally recognised as the world’s leading pitch competition for early-stage companies and emerging entrepreneurs, the Supernova Challenge made its regional debut at West Africa’s largest tech, AI, and startup show – culminating in action-packed Thursday final. Across two days in Nigeria’s innovation capital, the continent’s brightest and boldest disruptors joined Nigeria’s most visionary startups in competing for a US$22,000 total prize pool across six categories – showcasing game-changing solutions transforming agritech, cybersecurity, edtech, e-commerce, healthtech, telecom, and more. Following the semi-finals 24 hours prior, the remaining contestants battled it out for valuable cash prizes and unprecedented visibility as regional and international investors watched on. Abdul-Jabbar Momoh, VP, from Nigerian startup Curacel – revolutionising health insurance with AI-driven solutions – emerged as the most outstanding finalist among the expert judging panel, and was awarded the US$10,000 first prize for its AI-driven health insurance solution. Reflecting on the at GITEX NIGERIA, Momoh said: “Placing first at the GITEX NIGERIA Supernova Challenge gives us more visibility and fuel our expansion across Europe, Middle East and Africa, as well as North America. Most importantly we are going to keep on impacting lives in Africa and around the world by deploying solutions to move health insurance distribution.” The winners across each Supernova Challenge category were as follows: Overall Supernova Champion (US$10,000): Curacel AI category (US$2,000): Build Africa Digital Finance category (US$2,000): InCash Creative Economy & Martech (US$2,000): Hadiya Agritech & Energy (US$2,000): Acecore Mobility & Smart Cities (US$2,000): Kara Disruptor Award (US$2,000): HiPrep For more information, news and updates on GITEX NIGERIA, please visit gitexnigeria.ng. Social Media: Hashtag: #GITEXNIGERIA Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Useful links: To access our digital press kit, click here Press office contact press@gitexnigeria.ng Disclaimer – This article is a work of original content created for public relations and informational purposes only. It may be published across multiple digital platforms with the full knowledge and consent of the author/publisher. All images, logos, and referenced names are the property of their respective owners and used here solely for illustrative or informational purposes. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or modification of this article without prior written permission from the original publisher is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to other content is
Uber Eats and Pipe Partner to Offer Fast, AI-Powered Capital Access for Small Restaurants
September 11, 2025
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Prime Highlight Uber Eats has teamed up with fintech company Pipe to provide small restaurants with quick, pre-approved funding options directly through the Uber Eats Manager app. The service eliminates traditional loan barriers like credit checks and guarantees, with 98% of applications approved and funds delivered within 24 hours. Key Facts Pipe uses AI to analyze six months of anonymous Uber Eats transaction data, tailoring capital offers to each restaurant’s revenue flow. Restaurants using the service reported an average 12% monthly business growth, showing its impact on small business expansion. Background Uber Eats has partnered with fintech company Pipe to enable small restaurants to access capital more easily. The new collaboration combines the technology of Pipe with the Uber Eats Manager application, where owners of restaurants could receive individually tailored and pre-approved funding options, depending on the revenue and cash flows. The main characteristic of this new system is simplicity. The process does not need credit checks, personal guarantees, and FICO scores, as was done with traditional loans. Instead, Pipe uses artificial intelligence to study six months of anonymous credit card transaction data from Uber Eats. Based on this data, restaurants are offered capital tailored to their business needs. Pipe CEO Luke Voiles said the service helps restaurants grow without the usual barriers. He added that 98% of applications get approved, and most funds reach businesses within 24 hours. Many restaurants using the service have reported a 12% growth in business each month. Karl Hebert, Uber’s vice president of global commerce and financial services, said the partnership helps restaurant owners succeed by offering easy access to capital. “Our goal is to provide a solution that works smoothly and helps small businesses expand,” he explained. Unlike traditional loans, Pipe’s capital adapts to a restaurant’s revenue. This implies that during low sales, owners of these restaurants are in a position to repay the funds more easily. This effort is in Uber Eats, a further attempt to help small businesses. In 2022, the company collaborated with Visa to award 1 million grants to restaurants struggling due to the pandemic and other crises. This additional capital access service is to further assist the restaurants to grow and flourish. Read Also: Google Expands AI-Powered Search ‘AI Mode’ to Five New Languages Worldwide
GITEX NIGERIA puts a global spotlight on West Africa as government and global tech leaders back Nigeria’s digital future
September 11, 2025
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Exhibitors cite strong investor leads and international visibility as inaugural event brings in participants from 78 countries Lagos, Nigeria – 09 September 2025: The debut of GITEX NIGERIA brought a global spotlight to Nigeria’s digital economy, with international exhibitors and investors confirming strong engagement and immediate business opportunities. Held under the patronage of H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, GITEX NIGERIA ran from 1-4 September across Abuja and Lagos. The event was supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), endorsed by the Lagos State Government, and organised by KAOUN International, global producer of GITEX events. The Hon. Olatunbosun Alake, Commissioner, Innovation, Science & Technology, Lagos State, said: “In three short days, GITEX NIGERIA has already had a meaningful impact on our nation, from startups seeking funds and exposure with global investors to international organisations discovering the vast growth opportunities within our digital economy. This annual event will continue to grow, have a long-term contribution to Nigerian digitalisation, and show the world the power of international collaboration.” International participants highlighted the quality of engagement with decision makers and the value of Nigeria as a market. Abdelaziz Saidu, Country Leader at Cisco Nigeria & Ghana, said: “GITEX NIGERIA has been amazing – the crowd has been overwhelming, not just in size but in the quality of people coming to our stand, including the Lagos State Governor and the Minister, who were impressed with our AI and cyber security showcases. From day one we’ve generated strong leads, some already converting into opportunities, and engaged with organisations like the African Union. The brand reputation of GITEX has pulled in the right crowd locally, regionally and internationally, making this inaugural edition truly impactful.” The event hosted dual platforms in Lagos – the GITEX NIGERIA Tech Expo & Future Economy Conference at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre and the GITEX NIGERIA Startup Festival at the Landmark Centre. Together, these platforms provided an international stage for Nigerian startups, investors, and corporates to connect, build partnerships, and explore the country’s digital growth potential. As West Africa’s largest tech and startup show, GITEX NIGERIA also featured the country’s most internationally diverse investor programme, facilitating meetings between startups, corporates, investors, and government stakeholders to advance cross-border collaboration. The event was supported by international tech companies and organisations, including AWS, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), IBM, Meta, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Kaspersky, Space42, Microsoft, and NVIDIA. For more information, news and updates on GITEX NIGERIA, please visit gitexnigeria.ng. Social Media: Hashtag: #GITEXNIGERIA Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Useful links: To access our digital press kit click here Press office contact press@gitexnigeria.ng Disclaimer – This article is a work of original content created for public relations and informational purposes only. It may be published across multiple digital platforms with the full knowledge and consent of the author/publisher. All images, logos, and referenced names are the property of their respective owners and used here solely for illustrative or informational purposes. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or modification of this article without prior written permission from the original publisher is strictly prohibited. Any resemblance to other content is purely coincidental or used under fair use policy with proper attribution. Read More : Microsoft Invests $30 Billion in UK AI Sector to Boost Economy and Innovation
Most Transformational Leader Making An Impact In 2025
September 11, 2025
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Most Transformational Leader Making An Impact In 2025 Honoring a visionary changemaker, this exclusive 2025 edition celebrates the Most Transformational Leader Making an Impact, one individual redefining leadership through innovation, purpose, and lasting global influence. Quick highlights Quick reads
What Makes a Prolific Author Sustain Creative Output
September 11, 2025
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The Productivity Paradox Each author has their own pace—some work consistently through the years, while others work in spurts, with intervals between. Such a comparison creates a so-called productivity paradox. The paradox is fundamentally based on the question of how a prolific author can produce creative results continuously, without running out of inspiration or undermining their output. Is it talent, discipline, routine, or something intangible? To comprehend what contributes to sustainable productivity in writing, one must look beyond the surface level. It is not merely a matter of writing more; it is a matter of being creative, coherent, and relevant in the longer term. The Myth of Constant Inspiration Among the common misunderstandings regarding writing is that it is completely inspired. Although inspiration is a factor, it is not the only motivator of productivity. Indeed, several experienced writers refer to inspiration as ineffective. The reliance on a transient feeling of creativity may result in extended stagnation, during which minimal or no improvement takes place. To a prolific author, the process of writing is not waiting until one is in the right mood, but rather, it is about turning up. Inspiration is often substituted with routine and discipline, developing a sustainable pattern of production. The contradiction is that the habits that were assumed to be strict are, in fact, much more creative because they allow the mind to be more deeply concentrated. Embracing a Systems-Based Approach One of the most significant distinctions between occasional and enduring writers is the systems. Examples of systems are time-blocking writing time, outlining structures, or even bundling similar tasks together. These frameworks minimize decision fatigue and enable the expenditure of additional energy on the very writing process. This systems approach allows a prolific writer to perceive writing as a craft and art. Rather than seeing productivity as an adversary to creativity, it is a vessel of it. The paradox is resolved when one realizes that creativity can be developed instead of something passively accepted. Resilience in the Face of Creative Fatigue Every writer experiences creative fatigue. Maintaining high-level production over time is associated with identifying ways to overcome burnout, self-doubt, and low motivation. Resilience does not imply experiencing fatigue. Instead, it is an acceptance of natural ebbs and flows of creativity without letting it stop the progress entirely. This could involve changing projects, changing the writing conditions, or giving space to relax. Knowing when to plow and when to retreat is an acquired art that all prolific writers should learn. The Role of Purpose and Internal Drive A sense of purpose is another subtle but effective ingredient in long-term creative productivity. Authors who comprehend the purpose behind their writing, be it the need to express emotions, communicate, or transform, are likely to persist despite the lack of external rewards or the slow pace of such rewards. This motivation is a self-perpetuated cycle. The faster a writer can access their central motivations, the less challenging it becomes to generate ideas and sustain momentum. Consistency is driven by purpose, and identity is reinforced through consistency as a prolific writer. Furthermore, this purpose tends to shield against innovative comparison. With the abundance of content in the landscape, it’s quite simple to be frustrated with the work of other people. However, individuals who are grounded on their own are less affected by the noise around them. Creative Renewal and Long-Term Vision Whereas a sprint of intense effort could result in short term productivity, long term output necessitates a renewal. One similarity between enduring writers is the fact that they embrace learning and growth. They will read as much as they can, experiment with new genres, and get feedback not only to become better but to rekindle their passion. Long-term productivity is possible by viewing writing as a lifelong process, as opposed to a series of discrete projects. The long-term vision also allows a certain degree of trial and error, and therefore, it is easier to recover setbacks and inevitable stagnation. Through this, the prolific identity of an author does not occur overnight. It is nurtured by a combination of mindful habits, internal focus, and flexibility. The production of more, and the sense of less pressure, is sometimes the crowning of years of refinement and hardening, though it may seem a paradox at first sight. Final Thoughts The productivity paradox of writing is not about some unseen reservoir of inexhaustible creativity but about how inspiration and effort, process and purpose, spontaneity and structure interact. A prolific writer is not the one who has the most time, talent, or even ideas, but the one who has matched their habits, attitude, and motivations to routine creative expression. Creativity is not about writing more or more quickly, but writing mindfully, more intelligently, and purposefully. Once such alignment is established, productivity is no longer a paradox; it becomes a natural continuation of the writer’s life. Read More : Most Transformational Leader Making An Impact In 2025