New Entrepreneurs Xchange for Transformation: Idea to Impact project (NEXTi2i), is an Ashesi program in collaboration with MIT D-Lab, funded by USAID. The purpose of this collaboration is to create a values-driven incubator that trains emerging entrepreneurs with the focus on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, (SDG)-driven outcomes in their business models.
Our incubator redefines the core purpose of business creation, enabling entrepreneurs to consider not just profit, but people, through a unique methodology called Lean Research.
Lean Research is an ethical approach to rigorous, relevant, respectful, and right-sized research: a tool for user-centric entrepreneurs to ensure their business meets community needs.
Through an annual Ecosystem Convening, Ashesi and MIT D-Lab will bring together key players across the Ghanaian entrepreneurial ecosystem and beyond to break down system barriers and explore new ways of supporting entrepreneurs to tackle the SDGs
Students who participate in our incubator programme will:
- Be exposed to creative problem solving, leadership, entrepreneurship, through hands-on projects and experiential learning
- Be part of a network of young innovators prepared to help change the face of business, technology and leadership in Africa
- Be ambassadors of Ashesi's mission wherever they find themselves; to spread the spirit of ethics, integrity, leadership and citizenship