The Global Entrepreneurship Network is pleased to announce the opening of a new Startup Huddle chapter in Maseru, Lesotho to support the growth of the local startup community while crowdsourcing advice and support for its entrepreneurs. Maseru joins a global network of more than 60 Startup Huddle chapters world-wide and hosted its first event on November 1, 2024.
In addition to providing direct support to entrepreneurs, the Startup Huddle program addresses a critical element of success for all entrepreneur ecosystems – connectivity. According to GEN research, startup communities with higher levels of local connectedness translate to an increased number of startups – and that founders with high levels of connectivity grow their revenue twice as fast as those with lower levels.
"Start-Up Huddle plays a significant role in the city of Maseru by fostering the development and enhancement of entrepreneurs and businesses, thereby bolstering the local economic ecosystem," says local organizer, Moseme Sello.
At each Startup Huddle event, local founders give six-minute presentations outlining challenges facing their companies. Each presentation is followed by a 20-minute conversation with an audience of peers, mentors, educators and advisers who provide constructive criticism focused on finding solutions and increasing founder know-how. With new founders cycling through each gathering, and previous presenters joining the audience to give back, the community continues to expand while connections deepen.
At the chapter's first event, two local startups presented their businesses. Ts’ooatsana Julia Ntoale is the founder of Juju Couture - a handmade leather goods business. Sister Julia ‘Masina Mafike, founder of JMM Bee-Keeping (PTY) Ltd, owns a honey-producing business and also runs a centre that offers training to youth, emerging farmers, individuals, groups, and organizations. Her business has gained exposure to both local and international markets through expos organized and supported by BEDCO, which is an SMME support parastatal.
"It is our aim to bring startup businesses together with potential investors in order to foster growth in their respective venture," said Sello. "Startup Huddle offers invaluable opportunities for business owners to engage with ecosystem players, ultimately leading to improved business positions."
Startup Huddle Maseru is supported by GEN Lesotho. To learn more about Startup Huddle Maseru or to join a local event, visit www.startuphuddle.co.