ITACIRFA

It’s an exciting time for new media and social startups in the US and if you are following some of the innovative companies and technology’s nurtured by organizations like Y Combinator,  500 Startups and NewME Accelerator, one can only conclude that the next disruptive technologies that would impact the world over the next generation will likely come out from tech incubators or (tech hubs). In the emerging and frontier markets, there has also been an emergence of innovative tech companies and however there  clearly a need  for similar models to help entrepreneurs and innovators to develop technologies and companies that can be as disruptive as their counterparts in the US and Europe.

An interesting models that is beginning to take hold in Africa is was is typically referred to as the Technology Hub (or tech hub), which provides a resource rich environment and creates a framework that nurtures innovation with goals that go beyond assisting the successful launch of an innovative company locally, but also to help develop companies that can become players on the global stage. Trailblazing organizations that are leveraging the tech hub model to make an impact on the continent include the Kenyan based iHub and the Nigerian based Co-Creation Hub (or CCHub). I got a chance to visit CCHub in recent weeks and decided to put a bit of a spotlight on the good folks at the young tech hub setting up in a challenging environment where such a model is desperately needed.

CCHub Nigeria is the brain child of Bosun Tijani and Femi Longe. After years of being involved in the tech industry abroad, the partners decided to establish a preincubation environment to help mobilize and nurture young and motivated individuals in the city of Lagos who are focused addressing social problems in the country, Nigeria and beyond. Though not a full-fledged tech incubator, Co-Creation Hub (CCHub) serves as a conduit where innovators and social entrepreneurs can network and meld minds. It’s also is playing an important role of convergence, where budding local techies, business savvy folks and investors can connect and collaborate.

Located on the Lagos Mainland, the CCHub is an exciting place to be and you truly get a sense you are around the next generation of web entrepreneurs in Africa. With large open spaces, and ambiance that resembles that of a hip and cozy cafe, the tech hub facility offers an environment that encourages, innovation, collaboration and a place to hold intellectual conversations about novel ideas that can address social issues.

For its members, CCHub offers services such as access to its facilities, which include ICT services and conference rooms. In addition, members also benefit from the access to its network of industry experts and potential investors as well as access to exclusive events that feature guest speakers as well as hack-a-thons. CCHub is also involved in initiatives, partnering with mobile developers, Praekelt Foundation and Google Nigeria designed to help mentor its members but also brings a sense of credibility to their mission.

CCHub is certainly one to keep an eye on and I’m looking forward to blogging about the them in the future.