Dear Valued Subscribers,

Can you believe it's already June? We are racing towards the end of the first quarter of 2024! How are those goals we set in January shaping up? Are you crushing them, facing some unexpected challenges, or maybe a bit of both? Talk to us at growth@spurt.group, we are happy to listen!

A few weeks ago, we had a conversation with a number of business owners, and they were crushing their marketing goals but felt a nagging unease about the AI tool they were using. It was favouring certain demographics – not exactly the ethical approach they strived for.

That conversation sparked a realisation: AI is a powerful tool for growth, but we need to ensure it aligns with our values! Yes, AI is everywhere, transforming businesses across industries. But as entrepreneurs, we also carry a responsibility. Here at Spurt! we believe in growth with integrity, and that includes using AI in an ethical and responsible way.

That’s why this month, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the ethical landscape of AI in business through the various events and content we will be dishing out.

A fun activity before we move on! Have you ever taken our fun Product Quiz? It helps you discover your "Work Personality" – are you the analytical mastermind, the creative trailblazer, or maybe a charismatic collaborator? Knowing your strengths can be a game-changer, and the quiz can help you find the perfect tools to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. Take the quiz here.

Remember, you can always reach out with questions or suggestions at growth@spurt.group. We are here to help you thrive!

Spurt! Upcoming Events This Month

This June we want to make sure you're entering H2 poised to win.  From managing finances to building inclusive teams to mastering storytelling and ethically integrating AI. our events will enhance your pursuit of business growth.

Join us this month for expert insights and practical sessions that keep you prepared, adaptable, and innovative.

(Don't miss the "Build Inclusive and Productive Team with AI Webinar" Register Here.

Naija Hacks Series: Your Journey to Local Innovation Success Continues!

Early this month, we kicked off the Naija Hacks Series, a dynamic three-month series empowering Nigerian entrepreneurs to harness the power of local innovation!

The first session on "Effective Financial Planning" was a resounding success, equipping attendees with valuable strategies to manage finances and mitigate business uncertainties. You can catch up here.

The journey continues! Mark your calendars for June 20th because the second session promises to explore strategies to building a dream team that propels your startup forward.

Also, on the 4th of July, the series will tackle the complexities of running an African business. The "Business Consulting & Advisory" session will equip you with expert guidance tailored to the Nigerian market. To get timely update and reminders about the series, Register Here!

Remember to mark your calendars as this is your chance to gain invaluable insights, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and unlock the competitive edge of local innovation for long-term success.

AI: Powerhouse or Plagiarism Pitfall?

AI is revolutionising business, but with great power comes great responsibility. One key area for entrepreneurs is ensuring AI serves as a powerful tool, not a plagiarism culprit.

Here is the exciting part: AI can become your brainstorming buddy.

Content Creation: Use AI to generate ideas, outlines, and catchy headlines. Then, add your own unique voice and expertise to craft authentic content.
Research Assistant: AI can scour the web for relevant data and statistics, saving you time and effort. However, always verify information from credible sources before using it.

Remember: Ethical AI use means attribution. If you leverage AI text or ideas, cite the source (even if it's an AI tool!). Don't let AI dictate your message; use it as a springboard, not a replacement for your own voice!

Join the Spurt! Business Community

Ever feel like your business is on a halt? You are grinding hard, but the growth you crave seems elusive. Here is the secret weapon you have been missing: the Spurt! Business Community (SBC).

Think of it as your personal business growth accelerator. The SBC connects you with a powerhouse network of fellow entrepreneurs, all committed to scaling their businesses and crushing their goals.

Community Member Perks

Monthly business development workshops
One-on-one advisory at our business clinic: HR, Finance, Sales and Marketing
Listed Review on @MadeinAfricaBrands channels for FMCG creators
Founder profile on @SpurtSolutions
Business operations resources and insights
Tips on grants and funding opportunities for your business
Networking with fellow entrepreneurs and industry experts

Click here to secure your spot and unlock your business's full potential

Business News This Week

Nigeria- The CBN lifts ban on OPay, Kuda, Palmpay, Paga, and Moniepoint, allowing them to resume onboarding new customers. This move signals a focus on regulatory compliance while boosting the country's digital financial landscape. Read More Here.

Kenya - Kenya and the US Strategic Trade and Investments Partnership enters sixth rounds of negotiation. Negotiators in Mombasa will tackle agriculture, environment, and worker protections as they aim to finalise a high-standard trade agreement by year's end. Read More Here.

Ghana- Ghana's Finance Minister reports progress on restructuring $13 billion in Eurobond debt, while the country's foreign reserves rise to a healthy 3 months of import cover, paving the way for more investment in businesses. Read More Here.

South Africa - South Africa's sugar industry faces job losses due to potential mill closures and calls for a review of the sugar tax, arguing it hurts local production and livelihoods. SA Canegrowers urges government support and diversification to secure the industry's future. Read More Here.

Grants and Opportunities

1. timbuktoo Fintech Startup Accelerator Programme: Call for Applications. The timbuktoo Fintech Startup Accelerator Programme is a Pan-African initiative of the timbuktoo Fintech Hub in Lagos, Nigeria supporting startups that are passionate about leveraging innovations in the financial services sector to solve Africa’s most complex development challenges. This application is limited to citizens of African Union member states.

Grant Amount: Up to $25k

Application Deadline: 21st June 2024. Apply Here.

2. Call For Applications: Village Capital Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship Africa. The ESO must be operating in Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania and must be willing to support climate-focused – early-stage, tech-enabled small and medium enterprises with significant growth potential.

Application Deadline: 14th June 2024. Apply Here.

3. Call for Application: Ashoka x HSBC Together Towards Tomorrow Applications are open to ventures with innovative solutions that promote equitable collaboration and activate young people as leaders.

Grant Amount: Up to $25k

Application Deadline: 1st July 2024. Apply Here.